Elisam Magara   David Luyombya   Sylvia Namujuzi   Francis Ekwaro   Francis Ssekitto   and Diana T. Kacunguzi   

All over the world, universities have periodically conducted surveys to provide evidence about the extent to which graduates are using the knowledge and skills acquired during their training. Through a mixed research method, a questionnaire was administered among the stakeholders – graduates from the department – to assess their opinion on the future of Records and Archives Management Training in the country. The results indicate that more than 88.6% met the expectations of the programme undertaken. Most of them were satisfied with the choice of the programme in terms of the high level of employability, diversity of the programme, availability of professional work after the programme, and the unique attributes of the discipline. Whereas gaps were identified in the level of training, such as the existence of duplication with other programmes hosted at the host school, inadequate content on trending topics such as artificial intelligence, the internet of things, big data and virtual argument reality, the programme is rich in applications in archiving, design and skills, as well as in competences that keep the profession distinct. The study recommends a need for emphasis on practice, skills and competences, practical-oriented training, redesign and review of the curriculum, standardisation and professionalism.

Vasiliki Pavlidou   and Maria Tsami   

The present paper examines the strategic supply chain practices in the fast fashion industry that support Supply Chain (SC) growth, sustainability, and resilience. Based on an extended bibliographic review and considering some of the top brands in retail fashion, several core SC strategies are being assessed, considering their added value. The study introduces a novel comparative assessment of the core strategies of six leading fast fashion brands: Zara, H&M, Benetton, Mango, Shein, and Uniqlo. By examining fifteen core strategic SC aspects, the research provides a detailed understanding of how these companies navigate the challenges of global sourcing, time and quality-based competition, and environmental uncertainty. Inditex-Zara and Shein have been selected to be further analyzed, considering their strategy, success factors, and room for improvement. The study found that the effective SCM strategies employed by Inditex-Zara and Shein significantly contribute to their market success. It also emphasizes the significance of aligning SC strategies with specific product and market conditions, highlighting the importance of sustainability initiatives in achieving long-term economic, environmental, and social targets. Having reviewed several business reports, SC strategies, and evidence data papers from the academic and research community, this paper comprehensively analyzes the topic, underlining current successful practices while proposing strategic future directions towards achieving resilience and sustainability in the retail fashion supply chains. Despite its comprehensive approach, the study has some limitations. Firstly, the reliance on secondary data sources but also the focus on only six fast fashion brands may not capture the full diversity of SC practices in the industry. Future research could benefit from incorporating primary data collection methods, to gain deeper insights into SC strategies. Moreover, expanding the scope to include more brands and different market segments could provide a more holistic view of SCM practices in the fast fashion industry.

Filippos Kotsias   and Maria Tsami   

The present paper examines the innovative Supply Chain Management (SCM) strategies of Cisco Systems, Inc., a global technology leader, renowned for its adaptable and efficient supply chain practices. Leveraging Configure-To-Order (CTO) and Build-To-Stock (BTS) models, Cisco optimizes supplier, manufacturing, and logistics coordination while integrating lean manufacturing, outsourcing, and sustainability initiatives. A comprehensive SWOT analysis reveals several strengths of Cisco, including its extensive product range, commitment to ethical sourcing, and innovative practices in the circular economy. Cisco's achievements in operational efficiency, resilience to supply chain disruptions, and adherence to international sustainability standards underscore its robust SCM performance. Additionally, this study employs the Blue Ocean Strategy framework to evaluate Cisco's market positioning in a highly competitive and saturated environment. By embracing value innovation which is an approach that seeks both differentiation and low cost, Cisco is shifting its focus from traditional market competition to the creation of new, less crowded market spaces like AI, Blockchain, IoT, and 5G. The research employs a case study analysis and SWOT evaluation, to identify key SCM enablers and bottlenecks. Findings emphasize the transformative impact of digital integration, such as IoT, Blockchain, and AI, in enhancing transparency and agility within Cisco's supply chain. Moreover, advanced recycling technologies and digital twin applications are proposed to further Cisco's commitment to the circular economy. While Cisco demonstrates robust SCM performance, limitations include vulnerability to supply chain disruptions and high dependency on external partners. Practical implications suggest that adopting renewable energy, employing Value Stream Mapping (VSM), and integrating advanced technologies can address these challenges, driving sustainability and operational excellence. Socially, Cisco's ethical sourcing and waste-reduction efforts reinforce its corporate social responsibility and stakeholder trust. This research contributes to SCM literature by showcasing Cisco's innovative practices as a benchmark for global supply chain optimization, highlighting strategies that balance efficiency, resilience, and sustainability in an increasingly complex technological landscape. Future implications suggest broader industry adoption of Cisco's advanced SCM methodologies to foster global sustainable development.

Kiruga Abraham Mutitu   

The adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in corporate governance has emerged as a significant trend, with varied impact across global regions. This study evaluates the influence of AI on corporate governance practices, identifies the challenges and opportunities of AI implementation in Kenya, and compares AI utilization across different regions. Drawing from empirical evidence, it is observed that AI has enhanced decision-making, risk management, and compliance in developed regions like the U.S., Europe, and China, but its impact is limited in developing regions due to infrastructural and regulatory challenges. In Kenya, the primary obstacles to AI adoption include a lack of technological infrastructure, insufficient AI talent, and regulatory uncertainty, yet there are opportunities driven by the country’s growing digital economy. A comparative analysis reveals significant disparities in AI adoption across regions, with developed economies leading in utilization while developing regions lag behind. The study highlights the need for improved regulatory frameworks, AI education, and investment in infrastructure to bridge these gaps. Overall, the research underscores the transformative potential of AI in corporate governance and emphasizes the importance of addressing regional challenges to achieve broader adoption and integration.

Henry O. Wobo   and Ndubuisi Odoemelam   

This study examines the impact of environmental accounting costs on the financial performance of listed oil and gas companies in Nigeria. High-risk industries like oil and gas face significant scrutiny with environmental sustainability now a global priority. In Nigeria, oil exploration in the Niger Delta has caused severe environmental damage, affecting the operational performance of oil companies. This research evaluates whether transparent reporting on environmental conservation and pollution remediation costs influences profitability and financial health. Grounded in Resource-Based View, Stakeholder, and Legitimacy Theories, the study explores how environmental costs can function as strategic assets, enhancing corporate reputation and stakeholder trust. Using a quantitative approach, the study analyzed data from ten (10) oil and gas firms listed on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) that spanned from 2013 to 2022 (10 years), yielding 400 observations. Data from annual reports were subjected to regression analysis, with robustness checks confirming the results' reliability. The findings show a positive relationship between environmental costs and financial performance, suggesting that companies that sign environmental agreements will be more profitable. This supports the view that companies seen as environmentally responsible attract investors and customers, gaining a competitive edge. The study concludes that environmental costs are not merely regulatory requirements but can be strategic tools for long-term financial success. It provides empirical evidence from a developing-country context, addressing a gap in the sector. Practically, the study encourages firms to incorporate environmental practices into their strategies. Socially, it underscores the role of corporate responsibility in promoting sustainable development. Limitations include its focus on a single industry and region; future research could explore cross-industry comparisons and broader geographical contexts.

Bianca Nicole Fontanilla   Juan Miguel Salazar   Tomoyori Yoshida   and Christ John L. Marcos   

This study aimed to compare the alignment of workers' preferences for leadership styles with the currently practiced leadership styles in construction firms to identify similarities and potential gaps to enhance leadership efficacy. The research evaluated various leadership styles and their impact on worker satisfaction and workplace dynamics. The findings indicated that while all leadership styles received high ratings from workers, the Charismatic and Laissez-Faire styles were particularly favored due to their emphasis on motivation and autonomy. A Spearman rho correlation analysis revealed a significant, though weak, positive correlation (Spearman rho = 0.329, p = 0.014) between the leadership styles practiced in construction firms and workers' preferences. These data indicate that while there is some alignment, there is still substantial room for improvement. The study concludes that construction firms should incorporate more charismatic and laissez-faire leadership elements to better align with worker preferences, enhancing job satisfaction and overall leadership effectiveness. The research highlights the importance of understanding worker preferences in leadership styles. It suggests further exploring additional factors such as organizational culture, communication practices, and worker demographics to grasp their influence on leadership efficacy fully.

Lynette Lulama Mbatha   and Jeffrey Siphiwe Mkhize   

This paper examines how college leadership drives the transformation agenda in community colleges in South Africa. This paper offers a case of leadership prevalent in two South African Community Education and Training (CET) colleges. The main participants in this study were those entrusted with various leadership roles within the colleges under investigation. Data were generated using interviews, focus groups and questionnaires. The transformational leadership theory was used as an analytical lens. We assert that CET college leadership is pivotal in directing organisational transformation and executing policy directives. Research indicates that overseeing change demands competencies in transformational leadership. We contend that these skills are only partially inherent in CET colleges. The lack of transformational leadership skills at CET colleges has implications for implementing policy and change management. We further argue that the lack of stimulation and consideration and the college leadership's inability to rally critical stakeholders' support inhibit the mandate's successful implementation. We recommend that transformational leadership skills largely guide leadership practice and cascade these skills to all system levels by questioning core assumptions, rallying support for a collective vision, and enhancing all stakeholders' principles, outlook, purpose, and ethical standards.

Alfonso Arellano   Luis RamĂ­rez   Gabriela Arias   and Nadia BenalcĂĄzar   

In Ecuador, potable water tariffs are set by Service Providers under the guidelines of the Water Regulation and Control Agency (ARCA), a critical component for ensuring sustainable water management. These tariffs consist of two components: 1) fixed tariffs are based on a basic monthly consumption which should at least cover the operational and maintenance costs (O&M) of the service; 2) variable tariff component is intended to recover the investment and fund repairs and expansions to increase geographic and demographic coverage and to improve water quality. This study analyzes whether basic consumption limits and the basic tariffs align with the population sizes and hydraulic flow rates of water supply systems, using mathematical equations governing their design. Linear regression analysis and the determination coefficient R^ÂČ are employed to assess the relationship between population sizes, hydraulic flow rates and tariff settings. A positive linear relationship is hypothesized, reflecting an expected correlation between population sizes, flow rates, and O&M costs. However, the study finds weak correlations, with the highest R^ÂČ being only 10.7%, suggesting that current tariff structures are inadequate for covering operational and maintenance costs. This insufficiency poses challenges to the sustainability of water services. Additionally, the analysis reveals that both small and large communities struggle with cost recovery due to billing practices that do not effectively address basic consumption limits, compounded by issues such as incomplete and delayed payments. These findings underscore the need for revised tariff structures and improved billing and collection strategies to ensure financial sustainability and equitable water service provision.

M Agenbag   BH Challens   and L van Jaarsveld   

The gender gap in leadership positions is particularly noticeable in South African schools despite efforts to address gender imbalances. The shortage of female school principals, especially in secondary schools, is a major concern despite sufficient qualified female educators. The purpose of this study was to investigate the promotion opportunities and career paths of female principals at South African secondary schools as well as the aspect of challenges, stereotyping, social, and cultural factors as well as perceptions about themselves. A qualitative approach, within the interpretivist paradigm, was used to shed more light from a leadership point of view on the paths that the respective participants had to follow to finally be appointed. Data collection was done using semi-structured interviews with seven female principals. The data were transcribed and analyzed to give a reliable picture. An overview of female school leadership, as well as the paths that led there, was one of the themes of the study. Findings from this study showed that women do not necessarily have to possess masculine characteristics to take over the leadership of a school, but that their unique character traits are sufficient to benefit them in this regard. One of the biggest challenges detected was maintaining a balanced work and family life, which results in women sometimes not fulfilling their obligations properly. On the other hand, family obligations may be the reason why women decide against applying for a promotion. The study concluded that policies exist to govern or prevent prejudice but when not adhered to create an indictment towards the effectiveness of policymakers. Furthermore, existing policies and legislation are not applied strictly enough to ensure that women are indeed considered for leadership positions, which makes them feel let down by authorities. The study recommends that there should be more opportunities for women to apply for principal positions since South African education consists of more females than males.

Mohammad Y. Kentab   

The study aims to identify the practice of leaders in supervisory offices for the behavior of influence based on idealized influence, inspirational motivation, intellectual stimulation and individual consideration from the point of view of subordinates in the city of Riyadh, and also on whether there are statistically significant differences in the respondents' response about the study axis due to academic qualifications and experience years. The researcher used the descriptive approach, and the study population consisted of employees in the supervision offices in the city of Riyadh, and the researcher selected a regular random sample of (200) from the study population. The study discovered a number of findings, the most significant of which are the tendency of the study sample's responses to (agree) with the statements contained in the axis of the effect based on the idealized influence, with an arithmetic average (3.56), and showing the tendency of the study sample's responses to (neutral) on the statements contained in the axis: inspirational stimulation (3.37), Intellectual stimulation (3.28), individual consideration (3.32), and the dimensions of the transformational leadership behavior axis (3.38), and it was found that there were substantial differences between the sample in the four axes depending on the qualification variable. There were no statistically significant differences between the study sample with respect to all axis attributed to years of experience. In light of the results reached, a set of recommendations have been developed that can contribute to supporting the leaders working in the supervisory offices. The most important of which is the interest in training and qualifying the leaders working in the supervisory offices on an on-going basis to benefit from the competencies of the transformational leader.

Tane Murgoski   

The employee onboarding process holds significant importance within the pharmaceutical industry of North Macedonia as it plays a pivotal role in cultivating employee engagement, which in turn is essential for enhancing productivity and ensuring employee retention. This research examines the relationship between the onboarding process and employee engagement. It investigates the factors influencing employee engagement within drug manufacturing companies, such as age, job category, and work experience. The research utilized an online questionnaire disseminated to employees working in pharmaceutical manufacturing companies. The study employed a 5-point Likert scale derived from the Intellectual, Social, and Affective (ISA) engagement scale, which specifically assessed levels of engagement across intellectual, social, and affective dimensions. Two hundred twenty-eight responses were gathered within one month and subsequently subjected to analysis utilizing the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). The results of this study contribute to the growing body of academic literature on employee engagement and onboarding by offering practical implications for human resource managers and organizational leaders. The result revealed a noteworthy association between the efficacy of the onboarding process and heightened levels of employee engagement. Significantly, the identification of intellectual engagement emerged as the paramount factor during the onboarding process. The research additionally discovered variations at engagement levels across different generations, indicating the necessity for customized onboarding process.

Sanja Pavlova   

The main purpose of this paper is to show the relationship between mental health and its impact on the organizational culture of employees in higher education institutions in the Republic of North Macedonia. The focus of the research interest is placed specifically on the impact that the COVID-19 pandemic had on these employees and the way they coped, that is, how they reacted when it comes to the organization, in which they work. This study uses the Vox Organizationis instrument to measure organizational culture and the 2-item Assessment of Mental Disorders in Primary Care to gain insights into the degree of depression of employees of higher education institutions in the Republic of North Macedonia, caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as whether they have a suicidal tendency. The questionnaire was distributed to private and state higher education institutions in the Republic of North Macedonia and was answered by 97 respondents, whose answers were processed using the SPSS program. All individuals face various conditions every day that are caused by numerous factors. Humans possess several types of well-being. These are: emotional, psychological, and social, which make up mental health. This paper suggests that having strong mental health does not mean that you never go through bad times or have emotional problems. We all go through disappointments, losses, and changes. This is proven through the research itself, which changed the mental health of employees in Macedonian higher education institutions, and this had an impact on their organizational culture.

Takwa Belwakes   and Lassaad Lakhal   

This empirical study aims to explore the correlation between quality management practices and operational and financial performance. Data was collected from 122 firms based in Tunisia and the results were analyzed using structural equation modeling precisely Partial Least Square methodology in order to leverage the approach of Preacher and Hayes to highlight the mediating role of operational performance in the relationship between quality management practices and financial performance. The current study aims to broaden the field of research on the application of quality management practices to Tunisian-based businesses in various industries that have received ISO 9001 certification and to apply structural equation modeling advances using SMART PLS software for a quality management practice study case. This paper shows practitioners the importance of the convenient implementation of quality management practices to support operational and financial performance. This paper presents an advanced approach as it takes into consideration the coherent selection of quality management practices and studies their effect on operational and financial performances of SME in different fields. The results showed that the internal process mediatizes both relationships between management practices and information management with financial results. Moreover, operational performance acts as a partial mediator between research and development and financial results.

Aaron Cohen   and Avi Vainberg   

This study aimed to assess the association between exchange and situational variables and schoolteachers' creativity. Hypotheses are based on the fairness heuristic theory and the exchange theory. The explanatory model included perceived justice, organizational culture, psychological well-being, psychological contract breach, transactional and relational obligations, and demographic control variables. The dependent variable was self-report and principal report creativity. Two different samples of Israeli teachers were surveyed, the second one a year after the first. The first survey (N = 191) asked teachers and their principals about their perceptions regarding creativity. In the second sample (N=146), perceptions were reported only by the teachers. The findings showed that teachers' perceived well-being has a solid relationship with the principal report of creativity in the first sample and self-report creativity in both samples. In addition, the first sample found a robust positive association between procedural justice and creativity (principal report and self-report). The findings also showed a positive association between employee relational obligations and self-report creativity in both samples. Interestingly, no noteworthy differences were found in the correlates of self-reported creativity and principal-reported creativity. The findings suggest that employees' positive mood should be a fundamental goal for employers who expect high levels of creativity from their teachers. In addition, employers should provide employees with a supportive and just work environment that encourages creativity.

A.F. Sanni   M.K. Onifade   D.E. Ighravwe   and A.O. Ojo   

Public building construction project management helps ensure building sustainability, making stakeholders focus on different aspects of managing the projects. Currently, sparse information exists on how to adequately and effectively manage the project because the existing frameworks focus on individual aspects of the managing process, such as costing and personnel management. Hence, this study aims to develop a framework for managing public building construction projects (BCP). It developed a fuzzy balanced scorecard (FBSC) framework for evaluating contractors' performance in public BCPs. Fuzzy analytical hierarchical process (FAHP) to determine the importance of public BCP evaluation criteria. Data were gathered from selected project stakeholders in the six locations in Southwest Nigeria. The results from the framework showed that the second location had the best performance. The overall performance of the developed framework in terms of financial criteria was 99.07%, while the clients' criteria generated 96.59%. Furthermore, the internal process criteria had an overall performance of 93.67%, while the learning and growth criteria had an overall performance of 95.44%. The information demonstrated that it is possible to compare the performance of locations from four perspectives. It highlights locations that could be used as benchmarks for enhancing the performance of public BCPs. The information from this study is important for anyone involved in the building construction business.

Damianou Ekaterini   Vrondou Ourania   Kakkos Vassilis   Pantazi Diamantina   Gdonteli E. Krinanthi   and Kipreos Georgios   

This paper presents the results of a study conducted in Greece among the principals of the primary and the junior/senior high schools. The study collected information on the principals’ personality, authentic leadership and demographics. Characteristics such as their gender, age, teaching experience and educational level comprise their demographic profile which is useful knowledge when attempting to implement targeted leadership training for school principals. Next, these characteristics were related to the five factors of personality to unveil which of them and to what extent affect the well-known and widely used in research traits of extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, emotional stability and openness to experience. Also, they were used to pinpoint their level of effect on the four factors of authentic leadership, namely self-awareness, balanced processing, relational transparency and internalized moral perspective. The results provide interesting insight as to how the demographic characteristics, which have not been researched widely, are related to the Greek principals’ personality and authentic leadership. This paper suggests that demographic profiling should be given more attention in research as it seems to significantly relate to both personality and leadership. Therefore, it should be included and taken into consideration by any research aimed to pinpoint the needs, skills and inclinations of school principals in order to prepare and deliver to them appropriate leadership training.

Hannah Orwa Bula   and Felistus Hilda Makhamara   

This paper is based on corporate governance and sustainability with a special focus on strategic and green human resource management and sustainability. The paper goes step by step to bring out the historical perspectives of corporate governance and sustainable development in Africa as well as the introduction of corporate governance and its relevance to sustainable development. Various corporate governance dimensions are well articulated to bring out how each dimension contributes to sustainable development. The study also discusses the highlights of strategic human resource management and how it connects to green human resource management in order to increase sustainability. Some anchoring theories to underpin the various topical issues have also been presented and towards the end tail, the role of women in board membership as an integral part of corporate governance is captured. It might be very difficult to have sustainable development without the full participation of women. This paper took the approach of a desk review of studies done on corporate governance and green human resource management for purposes of bringing out the sustainability component. The paper illustrates various dimensions of governance that can enhance sustainability through inclusivity, particularly of women in corporate board membership as well as public sector boards so that women can be part of strategic decision making. It further explores the use of legal rights and human rights as well as technology and innovation that can be leveraged to inculcate green human resource management practices with a view to capturing development for posterity which is critical for growth and advancement in economies in Africa.

Ruth Anyango Odengo   Hannah Bula   and David Kiiru   

Academic staff performance in higher education institutions globally, is seen as a fundamental driver of economic growth achieved through the dispersion of knowledge towards manpower development. The complexity of academic staff performance in Kenyan universities has drawn criticism. Relational contract is thought to have an impact on employee attitudes and performance. The objective of the study envisaged examining how organizational capabilities mediated the relationship between academic staff performance and relational contract at selected Kenyan public universities. This study was conducted using descriptive and explanatory research design. This study targeted six public universities whose student populations were above 15,000 and a minimum of 4 similar schools across the universities. The target population was 6 selected public universities with a population size of 6,271 academic staff. The sample size was 362 academic staff of the selected schools in the selected public universities. Primary data was collected using a questionnaire, bearing both structured and semi-structured questions. The findings established that organisational capabilities partially mediated association between academic staff performance and relational contract in selected Kenyan public universities. The study concluded that institutional capabilities such as organizational leadership, organizational communication and organizational culture are necessary ingredients that universities need to implement sustainable relational contract which can result in not only high performance of staff but also sustainable performance. The study recommends that management of public universities in their pursuit of increased staff performance should invest in modern, working and reliable organisational capabilities which will create a conducive environment for effective management of relational contract between the universities' management and staff.

Chiam Chooi Chea   Joshua Tan Juat Huan   Lim Yee Wui   and Chan Sin Yee   

Traditional Handicrafts are products selling the concept of "heritage" of a community or a country. Traditional handicraft products can play a significant role in generating income and contributing to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of a country. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic in the year 2019 and the after effect of the pandemic, the growth of a country has been affected negatively. This is because the closing of borders of countries and the travelling in and out of those countries have been halted for the past two years. Hence, there is expected to be a surge in the number of visitors to Malaysia. Hence, Malaysia needs to formulate the appropriate strategies to boost the increase in traditional handicraft products. A total of 231 respondents were collected for this study via survey form with twenty items on the five variables, namely; consumers' knowledge, subjective norms, and characteristics that are significant on the intention to purchase Malaysia's traditional handicrafts products. Nevertheless, perceived behavioural of control is not significant to purchase intention towards Malaysia's Traditional Handicraft. This study would be able to provide insights to various stakeholders, policymakers, and sellers on how to design and introduce the right activities to attract awareness towards the beauty and value of heritage handicraft products.

Niken Larasati Putri   and Ferdi Antonio   

The purpose of this study is to investigate how Tactical Green Marketing can shape Brand Perceived Value, convert it to the Green Product Experience, and further drive Positive E-WOM and Repurchase Intention. This study used a quantitative methodology and a survey approach, and data were collected in a cross-sectional manner. The purposive survey was used to determine responses from 248 people. All respondents have used a green skincare product that qualified for a sample. The conceptual framework was analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). This study demonstrated that Green Product Experience significantly affects Positive E-WOM and Repurchase Intention (alpha 0.05 and p<0.05). Consumers with good experience with the green product tend to share positive comments and are willing to repurchase the green product brand. Seven specific perceived values have proven positively to convert the Green Product Experience. Spirituality Guidance was the most potent influence among those variables, followed by Green Product Quality and Innovativeness. This finding is relevant to the context of Indonesia's societal norms, which count heavily on religious beliefs. Tactical Green Marketing developed all seven Brand Perceived Value variables, and yet the most potent variable is also shown by Spirituality Guidance and followed by Green Product Quality. Therefore, to be a chosen brand and win the skincare industry competition, companies should consider consumers' spiritual beliefs and continuously improve their product quality. According to the model-predicted value with R² and Q², the proposed research model demonstrates good predictive value. Hence, it could be replicated in future studies.

Zorzou Amalia   and Gdonteli Krinanthi   

The purpose of this study was to investigate "Who the Greek spectator is". Demographics and personal characteristics of 2,322 spectators were investigated. All participants are randomly selected football fans. They filled out the questionnaires voluntarily. Age, profession, education, marital status, and monthly income were the main demographic issues that were examined according to Greenwell et al. [25], and Lambrecht et al. [36]. Besides, the possession of a season ticket, the frequency of attending football games, and the team they supported were further investigated. Results showed that Greek spectators are 20 – 29 years of age (29%), high school graduates (38.3%), unmarried (47.4%), without children (52%), privately employed (27.3%), with a total monthly income 701 € - 1,000 € (21%). Moreover, personal characteristics questions showed that most of the participants are fans of the Olympiacos SFP team (16.2%), and attend the football games twice a month (27.5%), with a single ticket (51%). Taking into consideration the theoretical background, which indicates that the identity of sport spectators can influence customers' future intentions, the results of the present study, which was conducted on a rather large sample, seem promising [1]. Academics and sport managers could use this information to better understand spectators' future intentions and design marketing strategies aimed at getting customers back and attracting new ones to the stadiums after the pandemic.

Ekaterini Damianou   Krinanthi E. Gdonteli   Vassilis Kakkos   Diamantina Pantazi   and Georgios Kipreos   

Personality is considered an antecedent to leadership in all organizational contexts. Schools are an important organizational environment, with school leaders facing increasing challenges. Their personality affects the leadership style they employ. This research aims to delineate the relationship between the personality of school principals in Greece and authentic leadership, a leadership style that has emerged in the relevant literature as appropriate and desirable for schools. The study is the first to investigate the authentic leadership and the personality of all the public school principals in Greece, who appear to have received no training in any kind of leadership or managerial skills at a high percentage (70.7%). The BFI questionnaire was employed to unveil the personality factors, while the ALQ questionnaire was used to outline their authentic leadership. The results showed that the school principals in Greece are on a positive trajectory regarding their authentic leadership, with internalized moral perspective being the prevailing factor. Regarding their personality, conscientiousness and agreeableness are the strongest characteristics. Additionally, conscientiousness showed significant positive correlation with the authentic leadership facet of self-awareness and with authentic leadership as a single variable. This finding reinforces the perception that personality can affect leadership and implies that authentic leadership may emerge without targeted training in conscientious leaders, creating the circumstances to enhance it further. The results of the research can be useful for providing criteria when choosing school leaders and can be employed when making choices regarding their initial and ongoing training, especially if authentic leadership is selected and promoted as the appropriate leadership style for school principals in Greece, as this study purports.

Mohamad Zaid Mustafa   Noor Azlin Yamin   Abdul Rasid Abdul Razzaq   and Rosnee Ahad   

Teaching nowadays requires high commitment from teachers; the workload is heavy, the role is broad and the teachers are directly responsible for educating and developing the students. Educating and developing technical and vocational students requires quality, competent and high commitment teachers. Without commitment and motivation, they feel dissatisfied, or lack of passion in their job and the worst situation, some of them may withdraw or turnover from the profession. Teachers will achieve job satisfaction when the motivation and hygiene factors complement each other. Vocational colleges want their teachers to have the best possible performance. However, how to motivate the teachers? There is not much point in motivating them if they do not care about hygiene factors. Motivating people to work when the things they complain about disappear. When the dissatisfaction is taken away, the institutions can focus on motivating teachers effectively. Hence, the purpose of this study is to highlight the factors that affect job satisfaction in vocational colleges in Malaysia and identify the factors that affect job satisfaction. This study used Two-Factor Theory from Herzberg to decide how significant hygiene and motivator factors are related to job satisfaction among the vocational teachers and how the two factors complement each other. Among the factors identified are company policy, supervision, work conditions, salary, recognition, the work itself, personal growth, and achievement. This study also has theoretical implications for directing future developments study and offers practical suggestions to the management in the improvement of job satisfaction among vocational teachers. Job satisfaction is essential for individuals and vocational colleges. Factors affecting job satisfaction need to be given more attention to improve the quality of education and thus achieve student success. Herzberg Two-Factor Theory provides two factors that affect teachers' motivation in the workplace. Hygiene factors will influence teachers' working less if they are not present, while motivational factors will motivate teachers to work better if they are present. Therefore, any hygiene factors must be resolved first, and then motivating factors must be boosted.

K. A. Tladi   and A. M. Molefi   

Orientation: Employees have different angles when it comes to making decisions about their career paths. Some prefer to work on their own, while others would prefer co-workers. Burnout persists in organizations despite talent management policies and practices. Therefore, leaders and managers must evaluate their talent management practices in order to identify and eliminate factors that may contribute to burnout and, in contrast, lead to a success in career orientation. Research Purpose: The objective of this article was to assess factors affecting career orientation. The Career Orientation Inventory and a biographical questionnaire were used to assess the career orientation of respondents. Research design, approach and methodology: A descriptive measure was utilized with a stratified random sample (N = 205). The reliability of the measure was confirmed using the Cronbach's Alpha coefficient. An exploratory factor analysis was used to determine the underlying factor structure of the variables. Descriptive statistics such as mean, standard deviation, skewness and kurtosis were employed to analyze data. Main findings: The results showed that some of the departmental employees are comfortable with their current working conditions. It was indicated that most professionals have realized that they possess their own goals and ambitions with regard to their careers. Practical/managerial implications: Career orientation of employees is crucial to the survival of the organization, and organizational leaders must as such work towards strengthening the talent review process to ensure that the desired talented workforce is sought, developed, rewarded and retained. Contribution/value added: The findings increase the body of knowledge in the issues of career orientation of departmental professional employees and what their inclinations are towards career progression.

Ceren ÜnlĂŒkal   and Mustafa YĂŒcel   

Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) is one of the risk analysis techniques often used in many industries to recognize, assess, and avoid potential failures. FMEA consists of occurrence (O), severity (S) and detectability (D) of failures and by multiplying these components, the risk priority number (RPN) is obtained. The RPN value is an indicator used in prioritizing failures. Although FMEA is an analytical technique with strengths, such as helping to identify and reduce potential risks in processes and products, and being widely used, it has been criticized at some points. The main criticism is that different failures have the similar risk priority values and the same risk factor weight. Using FMEA alone may be insufficient in prioritizing the failures. It is not easy to appoint a mathematical number between 1 and 10 to O, S and D risk factors by the experts and decision makers who make the risk assessment. At this point, the use of linguistic variables offered by the intuitionistic fuzzy logic approach provides convenience to decision makers and increases the accuracy of risk assessments. This study purposes to assess the risks that may arise throughout the production process of a company operating in the aviation industry with FMEA. Considering the possibility that risk factors are ignored and risk priorities cannot be determined correctly, intuitionistic fuzzy logic approach is integrated into the study. For this purpose, risk factors have been weighted by experts. In problem solving, failures have been prioritized by experts with the support of linguistic variables by using the Intuitionistic Fuzzy TOPSIS method.

Mazen A. Al-Sinan   and Abdulaziz A. Bubshait   

The construction industry in Saudi Arabia represented around 5.5% of the gross domestic product (GDP) in 2019 and employed around 26.4% of the total workforce in the Saudi private sector; however, only 12.5% of the construction workers are locals. In 2020, unemployment has reached 15.4% among Saudi nationals. Concurrently, approximately 6.7 million workers in the Saudi private sector are non-locals. This paper investigates the challenges and opportunities of employing locals in the construction industry. A quantitative analysis of the public statistics is conducted to determine the genuine challenges and potential opportunities in replacing non-locals with locals in the construction industry. The analysis reveals that although most of the Saudi construction industry workforce (87.5%) are non-local, the construction industry practically can accommodate around 9.5% of unemployed Saudis annually based on the current distribution of unemployed Saudis and the construction labor market. The analysis, also reveals that most unemployed Saudis are college graduates with majors that do not fit to find, suitable jobs in the construction industry. Among the findings that the Saudi construction industry will continue to need a non-Saudi workforce. Furthermore, though most unemployed Saudis are college graduates, there is a shortage of Saudis with appropriate training and academic majors.

Thabiso Pie   

Since the promulgation of the National Nuclear Regulator Act, 1999 (Act No. 47 of 1999) and the 2004 Financial Security Regulations, the impact of the framework for civil liability for nuclear damage has not been evaluated. This research investigated the effectiveness of the South African Legal Framework for Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage at the National Nuclear Regulator (NNR). The study analysed how the nuclear liability system has been implemented. Data were collected through live interviews with the NNR experts. Qualitative analysis was used to analyse how the nuclear liability system has been implemented by the NNR since its establishment in 2004, and to determine the impact of the nuclear liability system, based on cost-benefit analysis. The key findings of the research revealed that there is an alignment between the current nuclear liability system and the international best practices. Furthermore, the research has shown that the nuclear liability system has net-benefits for the public and for the NNR; and that the current nuclear liability system is partially effective. The research study concluded that the NNR can be regarded to be less effective in its role to implement the nuclear liability system. The study has found that there are areas of improvements in the legislative framework that will ensure a fully effective nuclear liability system. One of the main recommendations towards achieving an effective nuclear liability system is the need for South Africa to accede to a nuclear liability convention, and this will also contribute towards a common coherent liability system.

Gustavo Loayza   Jorge Sifuentes   Claudia Romero   and Meilyn Contreras   

Nowadays, the labor market is more demanding and dynamic, therefore social-emotional skills become a key factor for the employability of university graduates. In that sense, this research had as population of analysis the graduates from 2003 to 2016 of the professional careers of Administration and Systems and Computer of the Continental University. According to the findings, the importance of the competencies of self-awareness, self-management, awareness of others, social skills and responsible decision-making is evident, skills that are part of the methodology of Socio-Emotional Learning (SEL). The qualitative method was used, with a non-experimental design of the descriptive transversal type, applying the Delphi survey and prospective method as a data collection technique. As a result of the research, it is observed that the most valued and important competence for employers is Responsible Decision-Making for both careers, with 41% in Administration and 47% in Systems and Computer Engineering. In the case of the Systems and Computer Engineering career, it coincides with the ability that graduates of this degree have developed during their university career, while graduates of the Administration degree have more developed Social Skills by 39.3%.

Felix Nana Abaka Sackey   and Livingstone Divine Caesar   

Purpose – With the reported high failure rate among Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in the professional service sector of emerging markets, coalescing their resources via strategic partnerships to effectively compete in the market place is seen as crucial to their growth and survival. This paper investigates the impact of attributes of partnership, communication behaviour and collaborative conflict resolution on partnership success among Professional Service Firms (PSFs) in emerging markets. It further contributes to the body of knowledge by exploring the moderating role of operational performance in the hypothesised relationships. Design/methodology/approach – Relying on a positivistic paradigm, 300 small and medium-sized PSFs were surveyed, yielding a 79% response rate. Descriptive statistics, hierarchical regression and exploratory factor analysis were used to analyse the collected data. Findings – A positive significant relationship was found between two of the three dimensions of attributes of partnership (commitment and coordination) and the success of partnerships. Despite their importance for partnerships, trust and information sharing negatively impacted partnership success in this study. A positive significant impact was however realised for trust and information sharing when operational performance moderated the relationship. Practical implications – PSFs must develop innovative and workable tools to effectively monitor their operational performance given its significant influence on the relationship between attributes of partnership, communication behaviour and partnership success. Social and cultural competence training is needed for staff to improve the relationship bond, trust and collective goals of partnerships. Originality/value – This paper introduces operational performance as a moderating variable to investigate the hypothesised relationships. It offers insights into how PSFs can manage the pertinent issues critical to the effective management of partnerships in emerging markets.

Mary Safowah Akom   Charles Obeng-Sarpong   Florence Enyonam Aflakpui   and Smart A. Sarpong   

Effective leave management encompasses integrated processes that involve employees, supervisors and human resource managers. This study explored leave management practices and relationship with the performance of University administrators, using a Technical University as a case study. This became necessary due to the systemic challenges associated with the current leave management practices. The purpose of this research was to solicit the views of staff on the leave management practices and how it affects performance. Using Yamane (1967) sample determination formula, a total of 96 University administrators were conveniently selected from a population of 200 to participate in the study. A self-administered questionnaire was adopted as the primary instrument for data collection. The analysis of the results focused on the cause-effect relationship between leave management and staff performance using regression. The hypothesis that there is no linear relationship between the predictor and dependent variable was rejected. The study, therefore, concludes that there exists a linear relationship between the predictor (Leave system) and the dependent variable (Staff performance). The study further established that the leave application process at the University is more manual than electronic and also bureaucratic. It is also unevenly distributed over the year but rather heavily tilted towards the last two quarters of the year where majority of staff (86%) take their annual leave. It is, therefore, recommended that management institutes measures to enhance the efficiencies in the leave management practices by automating the processes to reduce bureaucracies, errors, and also ensure yearly even distribution of the leave.

Yueh-Shian Lee   and Weng-Kun Liu   

The purpose of this research was to find the employee welfare and loyalty of burnout employees, corporate culture and the role of employee turnover in the hotel industry. A total of 330 questionnaires were sent out in the study and 257 valid questionnaires were adopted. The main results showed: (1) Employee loyalty and corporate culture have a negative impact on employee turnover; (2) The interaction between employee loyalty and corporate culture affects job burnout and affects the employee turnover rate; (3) Employee loyalty affects corporate culture Have a positive impact; (4) Influencing employee turnover rate through intermediary corporate culture; (5) When corporate culture and employee turnover have a moderating effect, that is, when employee benefits are high, employee burnout will affect job burnout; that is, when employee benefits are low, employee burnout will reduce job burnout; when employee benefits are low, employee burnout will affect job burnout. Therefore, in order to expand the development space of the catering industry, the quality and efficiency of the service industry must be improved, which requires a connection between professional talents and the rational use of human resources. This requires professionals and proper use of human resources to maintain relationships. Managers need to pay attention to environmental changes and social dynamics, changes in structure and employees so that they can flexibly adjust to meet the needs of employees.

Judy Kibe   Hellen Ogutu   and Wesley Kasanzu   

The deregulation act has dramatically transformed the tourism distribution system since its inception in 1978. Deregulation act came up as a way to liberate the airline world from the entanglement of restrictive operating structure; this gave in the idea of cost cutting that negatively impacted the airlines and the travel agencies and slowly created a distribution gap. It also paved way to new operating environment; airline loss of goodwill among travel agents, introduction of low-cost no-frills carriers that tightened the competition cords, increased fuel prices and customer demands among others. The paper aimed at assessing the strategies adopted by Kenya Airways to sustain ticket sales post the zero commission policy. It specifically sought to establish the influence of yield management, internet and branding on determining ticket sales performance. The study employed survey design targeting Kenya airways sales staff and travel agents. The research instruments used were interviews and questionnaires. Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis. The results of the study established that Kenya airways depended on yield management in order to maintain their ticket sales management. The yield management strategy adopted includes focusing on corporate clients, price discrimination and cross selling. Further, internet with 60% presents the best alternative for airlines to bypass travel agencies in contacting their customers. Alliances such as sky team membership had also facilitated a large customer base for the airline. Kenya Airways focuses on corporate travellers and takes advantage of the hub and spoke system provided by JKIA to reroute passengers from other destinations that use airlines that are in the Sky team Alliance. The study recommends incorporation of retail customers as equal contributors to its performance in air ticket sales.

Rainer R. Fiscal   

The main objective of this study is to investigate the relationship between knowledge management enablers and performance outcomes in higher education institutions in the Philippines particularly state universities. The population of the study was the faculty members of three selected state universities. Simple random sampling was utilized to select the samples. The sample size of the study was 150 and all the 150 questionnaires were useful for the aim of this study and making the response rate of 100%. The reliability of data was tested by Cronbach's alpha and regression analysis was used to test the hypotheses. Results revealed that employee management has positive and significant impacts on teaching, research, citation, international outlook, and industry income. The same results are determined with organizational culture except for industry income. Information technology has positive and significant impacts on international outlook and industry income while leadership has negative and significant impacts on international outlook. This study concludes that employee motivation was a predictor of performance in teaching, research, citation, international outlook, and industry income. Organizational culture was a predictor of teaching, research, citation, and international outlook. Information technology was a predictor of international outlook and industry income and leadership was only a predictor of international outlook but negatively. The findings of this study may be utilized by higher education institutions in decision making to develop policies in achieving better performance outcomes.

Yadi Fakhruzein Terang Jaya   Muhammad Nasir   and Pramesti Dewi   

The competitiveness of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Indonesia is still very low and vulnerable compared to increasingly uncertain business environment dynamics. Changing conditions require SMEs carry out continuous and systematic analysis of the external environment, so that owners who carry out strategic planning get information through various sources in the external environment. This is done to maintain a competitive advantage and as an effort to realize unexpected opportunities and progress. This study aims to: (1) measure the impact of external environment on differentiation strategy in SMEs in Central Java; (2) measure the impact of external environment on competitive advantage in SMEs in Central Java; (3) measure the impact of differentiation strategy on competitive advantage in SMEs in Central Java. The type of research used in this study is causal research. The method used in this research is quantitative. The population that will be used and examined in this study is all SMEs in Central Java, while the samples in this study were 180 SMEs in Central Java with a multivariate type sample size. Data collection technique was conducted using a questionnaire. This study uses Partial Least Square (PLS) for its analysis technique. The results in this study indicate that: (1) External Environmental has a significant effect on Differentiation Strategy; (2) External Environmental has a significant impact on Competitive Advantage. And (3) Differentiation Strategy has a significant effect on Competitive Advantage.

Prasetyo   Amiastuti Kusmaningtyas   and Riyadi Nugroho   

For companies or organizations to come forward, it is required to have qualified employees. Qualified employees are employees whose performance can meet targets or targets set by the company. High employee performance demands are already part of every company because a successful company cannot be separated from employees who work at the company. In some conditions, employees' performance in a company is inseparable from several factors that can affect it. The purpose of this research is to analyze the influence of job involvement on work engagement; the influence of job involvement on employee performance, and the influence of work engagement on employee performance. This type of research is a descriptive study using a quantitative approach. The population in this study was the Branch Heads and Sub-Branch Managers of Bank Jatim. As many as 191 were taken using saturated sampling techniques The number of samples was used as many as 191 Branch Heads and Sub-Branch Managers of Bank Jatim. The types of data used are quantitative data, and the data source used is the primary data. Collecting data is by distributing questionnaires. Data analysis techniques in this study used partial least square (PLS) analysis. This study proves that Job Involvement has a significant influence on Work Engagement, but Job Involvement has no significant influence on Employee Performance, while Work Engagement has a significant influence on Employee Performance.

Stephen J. Kamau   Charles M. Rambo   and John Mbugua   

The study examined the effectiveness and shortfalls of the school infrastructure policy governance system in Somaliland. The study was a cross-sectional survey, using mixed methods of inquiry. The target population was 920 headteachers and 82 DEOs. The sample was 257 headteachers and 22 DEOs. Multistage sampling was used. Purposive sampling was used to sample regions. Stratified random sampling was used to sample headteachers and simple random sampling to sample DEOs from the sampled regions. Pilot testing of the questionnaire was done on 28 headteachers. Reliability was ensured by Cronbach alpha while peer review and pilot testing ensured validity. Data were collected from headteachers using self-administered questionnaires while DEOs were interviewed. Twenty DEOs and 247 headteachers responded to the study. Interview data were analysed using thematic analysis while questionnaire data were analysed by descriptive statistics, frequency and percentage distributions. The school infrastructure policy implementation was ineffective, and the policy administrative structure was ineffective but the policy was stable. There is a need for the ministry to review its policy administration structures to make them effective. The school inspection criteria should be made available in all schools.

Gretchen Calagui Dawaton   

The study pursued to determine the perception of the business students on the effectiveness of the On-the-Job Training Program of the Kalinga State University in four areas, namely support of the college, pre-placement activities, support of the host agency, and effectiveness of the on-the-job training in terms of academic, personal and enterprise skills. The study used descriptive methods using a survey questionnaire as the primary tool for gathering the responses of two hundred thirty-nine respondents. The study revealed that the students perceived the OJT program of the University as average. Also, the common problems encountered by trainees were a mismatch of tasks with the course program, lack of supervision by the adviser and supervisor, limited time for OJT, and lack of proper orientation about the work. Thus, the University needs to strengthen its support to student trainees; improve pre-placement activities, and enhance host agencies' support to develop trainees' academic, personal, and entrepreneurial skills. The University needs to establish guidelines in choosing host agencies to ensure the relevance and quality of training provided to trainees are aligned to their chosen fields. The findings of this study can be used to improve OJT programs for undergraduate students to ensure students' competitiveness.

Peter Uchenna Okoye   

This study investigated the relationship between public investments in construction sector and economic growth in Nigeria. The study deployed econometric statistics to examine the existence of Wagner's Law and Keynesian Theory in Nigeria using published economic and construction sector data. It found that federal government capital expenditure influences economic growth negatively (t=-2.837, p(0.0084)<0.05), while the recurrent expenditure on construction sector has a positive and significant long-run and short-run influence (t=10.315, p(0.0000)<0.05) on economic growth with a causal effect flowing from construction expenditure to GDP without feedback. The study further established that the aggregate construction investments have potential to grow the economy regardless of effects of capital expenditure ((F=8.19> I(0)=3.10 and I(1)=3.87); ECM(-1)=-0.196, p=0.000<0.05)); but for corruption, misapplication and diversion of capital project budgets. Although, this study partly confirmed the existence of Keynesian Theory, it cannot conclusively establish that construction investments stimulate economic growth in Nigeria. This signified that Nigerian economic models are defective and/or ineffective in transforming the huge capital spending on construction sector to economic growth, thereby making investment in construction sector an irrelevant strategy for economic policy formulation. It then placed the burden of economic rejuvenation through investments in construction sector on economic policy and decision makers in Nigeria. It recommended for diligence in budgeting and implementation of capital projects as the only way the capital expenditure can contribute to a meaningful economic growth.

Shorouk Mohamed Farag Mohamed Aboudahr   and Mua'azam Bin Mohamad   

This study investigated the influence of organizational climate on quality management practices in Egyptian public universities. The study used a quantitative research design method. The sample consists of 150 respondents selected through both stratified sampling and simple random sampling to get a real population representation and minimization of the sampling bias. The research used the questionnaire as an instrument that involved 23 items, distributed to four disciplines: staff freedom, resource adequacy, decision making participation, and quality management practice for data collection by the researcher. The instrument was validated by experts from the Department of Education, Utara Malaysia University, through the face and content validation. Data collected were analyzed using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) which was employed for data analysis method through AMOS statistical software based on the parametric SEM in AMOS 22.0. Findings from the study revealed that resource adequacy has a significant and positive effect on quality management practices. Meanwhile, decision-making participation has no significant effect on quality management practices. Furthermore, the study indicates that male academic staffs have a significantly higher level of organizational climate than female academic staffs in the Egyptian Higher institution. It was recommended that the university management systems be developed and it is the climate in the light of quality management stander and giving academic staff a clear role in expressing their opinion as conducting discussion plans on decision making with the participation of all employees' levels at the university.

Ayoub Mohammed Mahmoud   

Leadership style is one of the factors that play a significant role in enhancing or retarding the performance of individuals in any organization. This study attempted to reveal the role of transformational leadership on innovative pro-poor development initiatives in Zanzibar where selected community-based income generating projects in the Urban West Region, Zanzibar were used a case study. Data were collected from six shehias namely Mwera, Kihinani, Kisauni, Kiembesamaki, Matarumbeta and Chumbuni where 180 respondents were consulted through observation, interview and questionnaire methods. Data analysis was done for each study objective through content analysis and descriptive statistics. The study findings revealed 7 major transformational leadership practices in the study area including motivation, periodic appraisals, inspiration, volunteering, mentoring, sharing and training. On the other hand the study concluded 6 major community based income-generating activities namely animal keeping, poultry keeping, vegetable garden, fish processing, small businesses and hand-crafting business. This study further revealed numerous challenges facing the adoption of transformational leadership in various development initiatives in the study area including lack of skills, lack of fund, lack of knowledge, low level of education, poor perception of the community and inadequate awareness of the existing pro-poor projects. Lastly based on the study findings, it was concluded that poultry keeping was highly practiced activity in the study area. Capacity building interventions were highly urged for enhancing skills, knowledge and awareness of the adoption of transformational leadership in various development initiatives in the study area hence making the existing pro-poor initiatives useful in the study area.

Rongyu Wang   and Xuan Zhao   

This paper studies how a firm designs a product line that motivates consumers to deliberate to infer their preferences and buy the product that matches the perceived preferences by deliberation. Some consumers cannot determine their true preferences after deliberation and instead perceive a wrong preference as their own. The statistics describing the distribution of preference perception after deliberation are defined as quantal preferences. By considering the quantal preferences, the firm is only able to design a product line that makes sure the population of consumers with same true preference willingly and truthfully participate the purchasing activity. Our research shows that the equilibrium properties of a screening contract (product line in our context) have been essentially altered by the quantal preferences compared with corresponding properties in a standard screening contract. With quantal preferences, at equilibrium, firm sacrifices part of their profit to reimburse each group of consumers to participate the purchase. Quantal preferences introduce two new incentives into the product line: limiting surplus losses and driving consumer to deliberate the true preference as much as possible. Different incentives can interrelate, e.g. the incentive motivating consumers to truthfully determine their perceived preferences and hence sorting different populations of consumers by the perceived preferences interacting the incentive limiting surplus losses, where deliberation cost adjusts which incentive is stronger. With quantal preferences, high type product can attract low preference consumers. The quality of high type product can be negative. The profit of high type or low type product can be negative, and the surplus of high type or low product can be negative as well. If only one type of product can be produced, it can be the low type product.

Neeraj Kumari   

Employee recognition is the communication tool that reinforces and rewards the most important asset that is manpower for business. Reward and recognition program are designed to reward employees who have excelled in their work and convey sincere “thank you“ for a specific job well done. The study aims to find out the extent to which reward and recognition practices are implemented in Sona Koyo Steering System Ltd. A structured questionnaire was drafted comprising of both open and closed ended questions. It had 21 items in total. The questionnaire was filled by the employees of Sona Koyo Steering System Ltd., Gurugram who were selected on the basis of random sampling. The sample size is 50. To conclude, the organization provides both types of rewards; monetary and non-monetary, but nowadays most of the organizations are giving non-monetary rewards like promotion, increment in benefits, gift packs and so on because these are highly preferred by the employees. A maximum number of the organizations fixes 10% to 15% of its revenue for reward and recognition. Decisions from the top officials are considered for the employee selection for reward. Rotation of the job is done in many organizations so as to improve the performance of the employee. The best way to recognize the employees is in the group.

Khadija Javed Khan   Naseem Begum   and Abid Razak   

The theme of this paper is centred on the application of Results Based Management (RBM) as a tool to achieve high quality management standards and enhance performance. It is originated from the ‘Theory of Change’ which is pursued globally to reap investment benefits. Whereas the corporate sector utilizes tools like the ISO 9000 series and Total Quality Management (TQM) guidelines, the Not for Profit (NPO) sector has developed its own quality approaches by trial and error. One of the much appreciated methodologies among United Nations (UN) agencies and NPOs is the concept and practice of Results Based Management (RBM). Since its adoption by the UN system in 1997, RBM is known as the ‘Gold Standard' among its practitioners. This particular perspective has neither been debated in the Quality Management context nor in RBM literature. However, due to successful and continued adherence to RBM practice by the UN agencies and member states in planning, monitoring and evaluation of development programmes including the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and its successor agenda of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), it has become imperative to discuss the RBM role in Quality Management. Overall it is partly a description of this extraordinary management concept and practice and partly a fusion of experiences of the authors in the UN agencies and NPO sector.

Ibrahim Makina   and Judith Nabwire Oundo   

This paper takes a theoretical examination on issues and concepts of Competitive strategies and how these strategies affect organization performance in general and how it can be applied in sugar industry. Competitive strategies are; cost leadership, product differentiation and focus; the effect of performance in terms of profit increase, reduction in customer complaints, reduction in operational costs and increase in market share. The study looked at the performance of sugar industry in the world and how competitive strategies can be used for better performance of sugar industry. The purpose of the study was examining the applicability of competitive strategies in sugar industry. Desktop analysis methodology was used through meta-analysis. From the reviewed literature, it revealed that organizations that use competitive strategies realize better performance than those that doesn’t. This study is relevant to the policy makers for decision making, and it is also important to the researchers as it provides a platform for further studies. It is relevant for the managers as they can apply competitive strategies in sugar manufacturing firms. It also provides a chance to the managers of different sugar manufacturing firms to compare their performance with other countries that perform relatively better in sugar sector. The study recommends that sugar manufacturing firms should use competitive strategies in order to realize better performance. In conclusion, from the reviewed literature through meta-analysis, competitive strategies have a positive impact on performance of an organization.

Pinar Ä°sildar   and Ozay Yildiz   

Craft beer tourism is a type of special interest tourism, which is increasing in popularity in parallel with the growing interest and curiosity for novel, experimental, small-scale and artisan types of beer and related themes. As such, trails are gaining popularity, which integrate the opportunities to explore new tastes, methods of production and experimentation around craft beer and also complementing elements of food pairings, stories and heritage, shopping, places and landscapes around craft beer. These trails offer a more complete tourism product as well as a stronger sense of place, memorable tourist experiences and therefore opportunities for destination branding and overall promotion. In this context, an explorative field research has been conducted, possible participants have been identified and interviewed. As a result, the model for a craft beer trail in Izmir has been proposed and mapped, to include the places that produce and serve craft beer and related products, urban landmarks, accommodation and transportation, and a scheme for its management is presented. The trail is proposed to embrace and promote the natural and cultural landscape, social life, craft beer related and general cultural heritage and overall tourism attraction of Izmir, ultimately branding the city as a prominent craft beer destination. Additionally, the trail should provide product diversification as well as a means to increase occupancy rates and ease tourism congestion.

Ahmet Yildirim   Erkaya Yirik   Mustafa Çelikten   and Yeliz Çelikten   

The purpose of the present study is to determine the relationship between institution managers' effective leadership behaviors and institution employees' organizational commitment based on the perceptions of employees working in public institutions. The population of the study comprises of institution employees working in public institutions in the province of Amasya in Turkey in 2020. The sample of study consists of 132 institution employees working in public institutions in TaƟova district and selected using random sampling method. While independent T test was applied to gender, age, marital status, education level and duration of service in the profession variables, One-way ANOVA test was used for the working duration with the last manager as a variable. LSD test was used to determine differences among groups. The findings of the present study suggest that public institution managers display highly effective leadership behaviors. On the other hand, institution employees' organizational commitment levels are above the average. In terms of the perceptions of employees working in public institutions, a positive correlation was found between institution managers' effective leadership behaviors and institution employees' organizational commitment levels. While there was a significant difference in demographic features such as gender, marital status, level of education, working duration of service in the profession and working duration with the last manager, there were no significant differences in terms of age.

Steven H. Appelbaum   

This article reviews historical and current research focusing upon the failures and inadequacies associated with management and organizational development efforts, the role of the consultant in diagnosing organizational dysfunction. It further proposes a psychoanalytic model to serve as an organizational behavior blueprint. The model developed and processes identified are an intensive, prolonged technique to understand and identify the behavioral systems that trigger conflicts within the organization with significance attached to conflict and repression from early stages in the growth of an organization and its human resources-its people. The model synthesizes the research of psychoanalytic theory and organizational development (OD) processes in examining the components and effects of pain, affection, aggression, dependency and ego-ideal as interrelated forces. The impact of some of the historical founders of OD as well as Harry Levinson's psychoanalytic theory contribution will also be incorporated in this article. Examining relationships between intervention levels and component parts is the primary step to be taken in diagnosing, developing and changing the organization and environmental domain to an organic, reality-centered entity. The intra and interrelationships between the four intervention levels (individual, group, organization and environment) and the 30 variables uniquely, presents an overwhelming task for the organizational development consultant to diagnose, describe and hopefully change as the combination of psychoanalytic elements and organizational processes are complex and enigmatic at the individual/group levels with a multiplier effect illuminating the organizational and environment domains. The study of organizational diagnosis models is paramount for OD practitioners, because diagnostic models help to reveal key organizational gaps, and critical areas to focus. Moreover, this analysis emphasized the role of the OD practitioner as an advisor, helping clients identify the most appropriate diagnostic model -given the intervention objectives, and the organizational culture, and using feedback mechanisms to channel results in a non-threatening mode to later focus targeted OD interventions for the improvement of organizational effectiveness. The development of a conceptual model intended to diagnose the individual and total elements of the system is the primary step to be taken in this change effort.

Dilek Tandoğan   and Çiğdem KarÄ±ĆŸ   

This study aims to determine the relationship between foreign direct investments and the internet in Turkey. The relationship in question is researched by using annual variables for the 1993-2017 periods with the help of Toda-Yamamoto causality testing. According to the findings acquired, there is a bi-directional causal relationship between foreign direct investments and the internet. The importance of this conclusion is that it detects the increase in foreign direct investments as the number of internet users in Turkey increases. Accordingly, it can be stated that investments in the internet use can promote the inflow of foreign direct investments.

Endris MamoMulate   and Lawrence Abraham Gojeh   

Knowledge sharing is about sharing relevant task (skills, experiences) among team members or with other people and making the shared knowledge reusable. Hence, the objective of this study was to assess the current status and factors affecting knowledge sharing practices among health professionals in Hiwot Fana Specialize University Hospital in Ethiopia. A Cross-sectional research method with questionnaire was employed for the study. The sample size was 152 categories of health professionals that were: 46 nurses, 18 doctors, 15 radiologists, 26 laboratory technologists, 22 health officers and 26 pharmacists; selected from a population of 268 professionals in the hospital. The sampling technique was stratified simple random sampling. The results showed that the current status of Knowledge Sharing practices by all categories of health professionals was 'high' in areas such as: formal training programs and workshops to share knowledge (3.43); individuals' pleasure to share their know-how, information, working experience and knowledge to colleagues voluntarily (3.81); individuals' pleasure to share freely information and knowledge that improves the hospital performance (4.00) and colleagues awareness of the importance of knowledge sharing in the hospital (3.90). Knowledge sharing was 'very low' based on the non-availability of motivational scheme in the hospital to motivate knowledge sharing (1.74) but 'low' on staffs feeling of motivation to share knowledge in the hospital (2.44). However, there were factors that affected knowledge sharing practices, which included: lack of willingness by colleagues to share their information with other colleagues at all times; lack of awareness on the importance of knowledge sharing in the day- to- day work and lack of intrinsic motivation that staff would gain new ideas, technologies skills or techniques by sharing knowledge. The study concludes that there were variations in the opinions of the categories of health professionals on the current status and factors affecting knowledge sharing practices in the hospital.

Te Yi Chang   and I Ying Tsai   

Listening cannot be overemphasized since it is a vital skill in terms of the four language arts, language learning, and language teaching. The strategies that MICE-major university students might like are explored for their listening comprehension. Moreover, the research revealed the type of listening comprehension test item that could be difficult for students and indicated the difficulty that students might have in comprehending the test item so as to find some good strategies to overcome the difficulties. Furthermore, the classification of listening comprehension test items will conform to that of educational objectives of cognitive domain based on Bloom's (1974) taxonomies of educational learning [5]. Based on the findings, MICE-major university students will review their learning process and ask for more listening practice and strategic guidance in the hope that such activities will improve their listening comprehension and solve their listening difficulties, so that language teachers will create a win-win opportunity to double-check instructional deficiencies and offer supplementary aids. The qualitative research was conducted through a semi-structure interview. Based on academic performance, subjects recruited in this study were included 24 MICE-major students, 12 of whom were chosen as HPL students while the other 12 as LPL ones at National Kaohsiung University of Hospitality and Tourism in Kaohsiung City, Taiwan. The instruments used in this study included the simulated listening comprehension test of the Intermediate Level of the GEPT, and listening comprehension strategy questionnaire designed by the researchers. The pedagogical implication of research results will help ESP teachers to enhance their MICE-major university students' listening comprehension in their oral communication as required at work.

Sheng-Pin Kuan   and Horng-Linn Perng   

This is an active and progressive program. Quality Knowledge Community (QKC) is organized by a group of members of Chinese Society for Quality (CSQ) voluntarily. The reason why we call QKC a virtual organization is that it is an informal organization in CSQ; it has no obligation for anybody; its members come from different educational levels, experience, age, job position, geographic; it was stem from QCRG which was a seminar group that had been active for more than 30 years. We have seminars twice a month. In addition, we communicate on various kinds of knowledge websites. Firstly, we clarify our visions, goals and strategies, then we utilize technology roadmap to develop short-term, medium-term and long-term plan of QKC, we name it "QKC Roadmap 2016~2024". We deploy annual plan referring to the roadmap and check it quarterly, and then we build a living mechanism to assure "QKC Roadmap 2016~2024" running effectively, we call it "A Time Stamped PDCA". Through the Internet information trend, we can also collect valuable information based on our own cognition, and then attach new interpretations and meanings to establish a communication and operation platform for innovation and quality management knowledge to identify these documented information and knowledge that improve the quality of life, product quality, service quality, environmental quality, and human quality for global Chinese and people from worldwide who agree with CSQ / QKC to share and apply. This is the new interpretation of CSQ / QKC, the platform of curation era for professional quality knowledge. This article tries to depict how QKC can operate such kind of virtual organization from the stage of forming, storming, norming, to performing.

Ruth W. Y. Ma   and Eric C. K. Cheng   

This paper reports a quantitative study of psychological contract between employees and employers in the telecommunications industry in Hong Kong, and the relationships between the psychological contract, work behaviour and turnover intention. Previous research in the telecommunications industry in Hong Kong has focused mainly on consumer protection and telecommunications market competition, and research has seldom been done on the human resources issues in this industry. This research investigates the informal relationship between employees and employers in the telecommunications industry in Hong Kong. A quantitative research methodology was used in this research by surveying employees. A total of 227 valid responses were received, and the data was analysed by Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM). The results found that the psychological contract has a significant relationship with work behaviour and turnover intention. The psychological contract is a better means of explaining turnover intention than work behaviour. Business managers can leverage this finding to develop better plans and approaches to deal with work behaviour and turnover intention issues. The outcomes also provide empirical evidence to validate the psychological contract inventory developed by Rousseau [1]. This research contributes to the development of human resource theory and practice.

Sari Savolainen   

This study analyses changes in non-family employees' psychodynamics during the family business succession process. Based on the main principles of human psychodynamics and from a non-family employee's perspective, this study examines how changes implemented in a family business succession influence the daily interaction between family owners and non-family employees. The study has been implemented using qualitative research methods and analysis of reached information was analysed by hermeneutic analysis. Based on case study approach this study has found that employees can influence the planning and the implementation of succession but are not actually the direct participants in this process, which is reserved primarily for the new owner/successor. It is important for the employees' psychodynamic process that they are given information about the succession and the information they are given is acted upon in the manner in which it was originally described. If non-family employees can express their thoughts and possibly influence the implementation of changes, that could lead to an improvement of their overall psychodynamic balance as it relates to the family business. The psychodynamic balance affects the employees work well-being and motivation. If employees are given information that differs greatly from the actions that are implemented within the family business that increases the need to balance the psychodynamic process and further decreases the employees sense of work wellbeing and motivation.

Hirohisa Sakai   and Joe Li   

To achieve simultaneous, worldwide high quality assurance and other global production developments, today's task is to maintain high reliability in production facilities and operations. In response to the increasing expansion of overseas plants, it is necessary to improve and maintain highly accurate production equipment and operations through the development of intelligence operators. The authors have clarified Advanced TPS as a global production technology and management model designed to realize high quality assurance in global production. Manufacturing throughput (Throughput) is oriented toward the reduction of time required by the manufacturing process, so that the profitability can be increased. Therefore, the authors have recognized the operational availability a key indicator in order to evaluate the throughput. This paper will introduce a new operational availability model to identify 1) the development of throughput to link the impact from one step to following step and 2) the contribution of each factors and each step for manufacturing process to pinpoint the bottleneck of the throughput. With improvement to these bottlenecks, the business will be successful while minimizing cost. The effectiveness of this system has been verified at the Toyota USA.

Wiƛniewski Jerzy Witold   

The dynamic growth of the payment card market and the increase in the number of non-cash transactions is a global trend in payments. In most developed countries of the world, cashless payments have been displacing cash. One non-cash-payment instrument are payment cards, the use of which requires development of an infrastructure that allows cashless payments. The most important components of such infrastructure are ATMs and the points of sale (POS) enabling payment card transactions. The aim of the study is to assess the impact of the rising pay in China on various characteristics of the payment card market as well as to estimate forecasts of these significant variables representing the Chinese payment card market. A hypothesis is formulated that the increase in the citizens' wealth, expressed by the dynamically rising pay, has impact on the significant development of the payment card market in China. The tool used to analyze the mechanisms of the payment card market infrastructure will be an adequate econometric model consisting of many stochastic equations. The equation will be of a recursive-system nature. Consequently, forecasting from this model will be done using a chain technique. The rising pay in China stimulates the dynamic development of the payment card market. The number of these cards and their use for cashless transactions have been increasing in particular. Cashless card payments in China are currently at a relatively low level. To increase the intensity of such payments, new institutional solutions are required, especially of an economic nature, encouraging the payment card holders to carry out non-cash transactions.

Sanjukta Ghosh   

Organic food buying behavior is high involvement purchase and related to consumers' deeper value system. The decision-making is quiet complex due to its high price and lack of trustworthiness. Therefore, there is a need for separate and more engaging shopping platform, which can co-create a delightful and enjoyable shopping experience for the consumers. Literature does not give a clear understanding about the factors which can influence Consumers' Perceived Experience Value (CPEV). Hence the study aims to identify the drivers or the determinants of CPEV in relation to online organic food purchase. The objectives of this study are to identify the domain of constructs along with their respective items for CPEV and their relation through qualitative exploration and validate the items for respective construct through Exploratory and Confirmatory Factor Analysis. The study contributes a scale which can measure the constructs like Cognitive Engagement, Emotional Engagement, Behavioral Engagement, Telepresence, Willingness to co-create, Willingness to pay for Experience and Ease of Use in relation to online organic food purchase which was not available in the existing literature. This will be beneficial for the organic food producers to develop a digital marketing strategy and penetrate the market. The study will also help the service and experience designers to explore these opportunities and create a platform for the small-scale farmers and contribute in their livelihood development.

Elisabeth Fröhlich   and Kristina Steinbiß   

In an increasingly competitive environment, suppliers are now seen as an important source of innovation. Long-term partnerships enable companies to access the knowledge of suppliers to optimize their business. "Procurement 4.0" is one of the concepts that come to the fore when talking about digitalization of business processes. The major aim of this research is to discuss a conceptual model of "Procurement 4.0" and its potential to rethink the management of supplier relationships, which will be one of the main future tasks of procurement. The paper is based on a factual-analytical research approach that serves to continuously specify and supplement the elements of the frame of reference: Two challenging concepts, "Procurement 4.0" and Supplier Relationship Management, are merged to contribute to the fact that purchasing is indispensable as an "interface" within a global supply chain to reap the benefits of digitization. The factors that prove to be obstacles to digital supplier relationship management along the digital supplier journey - e.g. lack of guidelines, approaches or tools and a lack of understanding of the importance of long-term relationships - are reflected within the identified technologies of digital transformation. A comprehensive analysis of the given situation within digital supplier relationship management in Germany is provided. The most important digital supplier touchpoints are discussed in order to develop a traditional supplier relationship towards a digital relationship management. Thus, this paper succeeds in illustrating how the innovative concept of a supplier journey can be implemented in practice to counteract the future, entrepreneurial challenges.

Cheng-Tao Tsai   Wen-Chung Hsu   Chih-Chia Liao   and Chou Yeng Han   

This paper analyzes the impact of R&D locational choices that manufacturing firms in Taiwan take under the differentiation of locational advantages between Vietnam and Taiwan as well as improves some points which are incompletely focused in the same study on Taiwanese firms, the cross-strait, and overweighing case-studies in the past. The empirical evidences bring that the impact of variables to locational distribution of Taiwanese manufacturing firms across the strait is many: locational advantages, the type of R&D unit, the scale of the market, political conditions, industrial clusters, knowledge flows and R&D investments. Except for the negative relationship between the scale of market/type of R&D unit and R&D locational choices, the rest variables have the positive relationship with R&D locational choices, which means that, barring that the scale of market in Taiwan is so small that Taiwanese firms choose to set up R&D spots in Vietnam, other variables in Taiwan are more attractive than those in Vietnam; Taiwan possesses in negligible energies of regional creativity.

T. S. Natarajan   and G. P. Raman   

The Hotel Management Institute provides graduate students with basic skills and knowledge to be recruited and inducted as an entry-level workforce. Before completion of the graduate program, students undergo a Hotel Exposure Training program as part of their graduate study in luxury hotels which gives immense benefits to the students to know more about different functions of the hotel. There is always the perception changes with every graduates students from the time of enrollment to completion of the course. The critical phase is when the graduates students undergo the real time work exposure in the hotel. The research study explores the perception of Generation Z category undergraduate and graduate students. Generation Z are those born after the year 1996. The study focused on the effectiveness of hotel exposure training in terms of gaining confidence, understanding of the hotel operations and its influence, the student's perception on learning professional and technical skills, management practices, departmental functions, employment law and salary and benefit and to identify post-training employment opportunity. The study covered the Generation Z students of IHMC & AN-Chennai, India. The study, conducted by survey method, found that, the perception of the generation Z graduate students on the different variables are positive except the long working hours, which the institute and the host hotel discuss and find solution through better training schedule. The majority of the preference for career choice is in core functions of the hotel. Regarding employment opportunity, there is a scope for the host hotel to identify the required talents in advance and pursue in campus interview.

Lecturer Yavuz Selim Balcıoğlu   and Prof.Dr. BĂŒlent Sezen   

One of the most important issues in today's banking sector is that they want to add new customers to their bodies and want to keep their current customers. For this, banks spend a lot of money. Because of the methods they use, they either have to keep information flow to all their customers or they have to focus on their customers, whose traditional methods of probability leave. In this article, the probability of bank customers left by artificial neural networks is estimated. Presently, with the improvement of technology, a growing number of banks, holding existing clients for banks and combining new clients into their systems have earned significance. As the Bank’s efficiency, it is essential to define the clients with the contingency of dropping within existing clients. The client pool generated by the classical methods utilized leads to the introduction of activities on a major number of groups for the bank. This outcomes in higher expenses for banks. The main purpose of this paper is to lay the foundation for further research for precision of the bank will keep who as a customer. The findings of our study with artificial neural networks have described a minimal and more compressed group as clients who are likely to leave. In this way, it is foreseen that the likely costs of banks will minimize. As a result of this study, the most accurate estimation was obtained by educating artificial neural networks with the most accurate values.

Faruk Aydin   Hakan Sunay   Erdal Bal   and Erdem Ayyildiz   

The Purpose of the study is to determine whether there is a meaningful difference between the self-efficacy and self-efficacy perceptions of the footballers (gender, marital status, age and education level etc.) according to their personal qualities. The sample of the work consists of professional male and female soccer teams in Ankara. A total of 354 athletes from 10 male to 5 female soccer teams participated in the study. 128 female soccer players and 226 male soccer players participated. The majority of the athletes participating in the survey are between the ages of 19-23. ''Group Cohesion Scale'' developed by Hatem Ocel and Orhan Aydın (2006) and '' General Self-Efficacy Scale'' developed by Aysin Yesilay, Ralf Shcwarzer and Matthias Gersusalem (1995) were used in the research. Because of the obtained data did not show normal distribution, the nonparametric tests Mann Whitney U and Kruskal Wallis test statistics were used. According to the findings, "Group Cohesion and Self-Efficacy" perceptions differ significantly according to gender. Male participants (X =2,26) were found to have a higher "Group Cohesion" score than female participants (X = 2,08). It is also seen that male participants (X = 2,14) received "Self-Efficacy" scores higher than female participants (X = 1.96). According to the marital status variable, there was no significant difference in the perception of "Group Cohesion" and "Self-Efficacy". There was a significant difference between "Group Cohesion" scores according to age variable. As a result of the multiple comparison tests, the 15-18 age groups were found to score higher than the age group of 19 and above. According to the educational status variable, there was no significant difference between the scale scores of "Group Cohesion and Self-Efficacy".

Chao-Chen Hsieh   and Jun-Zhi Chiu   

Supply chain finance (SCF) is dynamic approach in banks’ proprietary platform and is becoming more flexible and transparent through ingenious technological solutions of effectively integrating the flows of logistics and capital into the financial service provider industry. The paper aims to utilize the TF-IDF technique in order to make greater contributions to future SCF researches and discusses different scopes of SCF and their relation to roll out SCF solutions. In efforts to demonstrate the importance role that frequency-inverse document frequency (TF-IDF) plays in retrieving information using various keywords within various document (otherwise known as text mining), this study will attempt to showcase the research findings from more than 250 academic database which focuses on supply chain finance between seller and buyer. In presenting the two leading components that impact the analysis of text mining, namely the mechanism and technological innovation of SCF. Through systematic review of the SCF is concerned with financial liquidity and the viability of SCF, this research will analyze the keyword frequencies and assess the significance of terms (or words) within this document collection separately. Finally, this report explores possible solutions for future research based on the current framework and data analysis in order to achieve capital gain, sustainability and viable replenishments.

Anura Amarasena   

This research article analyses the present explanations of the phenomenon of born globals, in particular within the context of South Korea with the objective of identifying the characteristics that can affect the rapid internationalization of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The traditional theories of internationalization have built with the aim of illuminating the internationalization of large multinational enterprises (MNEs). These models explain that doing international business develops progressively over time and firms establish themselves domestically before gradually turning into global markets. However, those traditional theories were unable to clarify the way of acting of companies which include SMEs that leapfrog or rising development of born globals. This has created a requirement for a new interpretation of internationalization. As an export-led country, born globals play an important role in improving South Korea's competitiveness. This review has significant implications which propose that many characteristics can affect the rapid internationalization of SMEs in South Korea even though they are still not precisely clear. Thus the paper highlights that wider empirical research is significant to this country for understanding the specific characteristics that are responsible for the rapid internationalization of their SMEs.

Collins Otieno Odoyo   and Patrick B. Ojera   

Accounting Information System (AIS) is a system that processes financial and nonfinancial transactions that directly affect the organizations operations processing of financial activities such as changes to customers' names and addresses to keep such files current. The purpose of this study was to illustrate the impact of top management support on accounting information systems, a case of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems and, further, to analyze the impact of accounting information systems on organizational performance. Online questionnaire was the main tool used for data collection and data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, inferential statistics, as well as while qualitative data was analyzed using thematic analysis. The study established that in the 3 university ERP had already been adopted and was being implemented. Also the Top Management supported the implementation of ERP. The ERP system was not adequately utilized to realize its full potential. It was extensively used on matters related to finance. Especially students finance and managing of the universities payrolls. The systems had not yet been extensively used on managing human resource matters and communication that it had capacity to achieve much. The findings of this study are important as they provide insight that could awaken the institutions that had adopted the ERP systems on how they could optimally benefit from the system. It also highlights the role played by top management on implementation of a new system like ERP. Finally it gives knowledge for fellow scholars interested in the field of Accounting Information Systems generally.

Pedro Costa Ramos   

This paper focuses on the discussion concerning the way how outsourcing decisions, regarding one or more of the companies' functions, can positively affect the internal value creation process and, thus, business performance, in both quantitative and qualitative terms. Based on the existing literature about Outsourcing a theoretical model was conceptualized to analyze and evaluate the influence of outsourcing on industrial and business value creation. The investigation process involved the collection of data through a questionnaire, applied to a representative set of SME's from the Portuguese economic fabric – resorting. The main conclusions to be taken from this research are: (i) that outsourcing does present a verifiable set of statistically relevant direct and indirect effects upon the internal value creation process and, moreover, (ii) that outsourcing does generate a positive, and statistically relevant, indirect effect on business performance, through the internal value creation process.

Asaduz Zaman   

During the past 20 years, substantial efforts were made to improve irrigation Management-Operation & Maintenance (MOM) through introduction of participatory irrigation management (PIM). PIM proved generally successful on small and medium schemes but it has yielded limited results on large schemes. Stakeholder engagement in irrigation system shapes hydrosocial territories: (1) by reducing tension between stakeholders, (2) by redirecting regional planning and strategy, (3) by highlighting water crises, (4) by decentralizing water responsibilities and (5) by integrating values and beliefs from different stakeholders (Sandra Ricart, et.al, 2018). Privatization started to become politically fashionable in the late 1980. In this context privatization means off-loading government ownership or responsibility for operation into the private sector, either to the farmers themselves or to an intermediate private subcontractor. But is it just a means of off-loading responsibility from a government line management system that can't cope, or is it really to benefit the farmers? (Adrian Laycock, 2011). Barind Multipurpose Development Authority (BMDA) is an autonomous authority. The BMDA does not require external finance and sustainable finance to operate the irrigation project. There are around 16,000 deep tube wells and surface lift pumps covering around 0.6 million hectares (round the year) under BMDA management. BMDA is managed by a board chaired by an appointee of the government. There are three other members representatives from farmers including other relevant department's representatives. BMDA has introduced innovative concept for prepayment for water; this was started using a system of using electronic prepaid meters. There are no formal WUOs established instead keeps a very close liaison with the farmers and the communities through their field offices, this approach appears to be effective. The chief executive of a successful irrigation project should have a clear idea about people, land and water.

Chewei Teng   Hsu Wen Chung   Huang Jin Wei   Ho Wen Cheng   and Tsai Cheng Tao   

This paper examines the impacts of outward foreign direct investment (OFDI) on the home firm's productivity in an emerging economy. Based on the literature review and findings from this paper of Chinese outward investing firms, we develop a conceptual framework that integrates the resource-based view, industrial organization economics, and institutional view of international business study. In our findings, they show that the integrating model of three aspects have higher explanation than the individual aspect model. We use firm-level data to explain how the firm-specific factors, industrial factors, and national institution factors affect productivity in Chinese OFDI firms. Also, this analysis of firm-level data can provide evidences in the effectiveness of resource using, competitiveness, and policy impact on individual firms.

H. Pharaoh   J. Frantz   M. Smith   and B. Van Reusel   

Designing comprehensive youth development programmes that combat the engagement of Health Risk Behaviour has become a crucial component in the battle against the challenges that the youth are confronted with in an ever changing environment. A Delphi technique was used to explore the feasibility of a designed comprehensive youth development programme aimed at combatting Health Risk Behaviour amongst youth in selected high schools in the Paarl area, Western Cape. A purposive sample of 24 experts was invited to participate. The Delphi process was administered online using Google docs. Specific questions were arranged in order for the panel of experts to give input as to: (i) the scope of the programme, (ii) the content of the programme, (iii) the approaches of the programme, (iv) the implementation of the programme, (v) the resources of the programme and (vi) the cost of the programme. The results and observations included: 1) scaffolding the programme into specific age- and gender-based activities; 2) the understanding that the programme be sensitive to the diverse needs and background of its participants; 3)the need for training of facilitators in order to be equipped to deal with the challenges that will emerge throughout the programme.

Marjan I. Bojadjiev   

For a modern organization, it is not enough to only have solid organizational culture, but the organization should be well aligned. Many organizations strive to measure their organizational cultures and their alignment through different models or by adopting internal methods. Despite the great importance of organizational alignment, there is no standardized instrument for measuring it. Therefore, alignment becomes the main focus in theoretical analysis and effort to design an instrument which is verified, easily implementable and measurable in the field of management and organizational culture. This paper has a twofold nature, the first is to give a historical approach to a development of an instrument for measuring organizational culture, leadership styles and their alignment called "Vox Organizationis", and the second is to propose modification and simplification of the same instrument. The birth year of "Vox Organizations", as a starting point for a holistic vision of the organization, is 2011. This instrument enables exploration of the alignment level between organizational culture, leader's values, organizational structure as well as organizational strategy. As of 2019, we propose new version of the instrument under the name Vox 2.0. It has two modifications and one add on. The two modifications are Vox Standard and Vox Standard Plus (Vox Standard +), and add on is Vox Extended, which includes change management consultancy. "Vox Standard" is to measure the alignment between Organizational culture and Leader's values. "Vox Standard Plus" (Standard + Formal) is to measure the alignment between Organizational culture, Leader's Values and the Formal part of the organization. They are both based on the Four Culture Types (4CT) and Four Leadership Types (4LT). "Vox Extended" – as "add on that includes Change Management Intervention, if the organization is severely nonaligned.

Vusi Mashinini   

The aim of this paper is to assess the spatial impacts of universal old age pension on sustainable livelihoods of the elderly in Lesotho. It uses sustainable livelihoods framework to analyse primary data collected from field work done in an urban and a rural community to assess the differential spatial impacts of the universal old age pension on sustainable livelihoods in Lesotho. The working hypothesis of the research was that the universal old age pension provides the elderly with access to some income to use for access to basic needs for livelihoods but that this impact varies in space between rural and urban communities. The results indicate that the impacts are viewed as positive by interviewees, but slightly differ in urban and community settings. The paper concludes that in general the universal old age pension promotes equal access to income for all people above 70 years. Although the impacts of this income differ between rural and urban communities, they ensured that the elderly people were not left behind in access to livelihoods and therefore promoted inclusive development. However, there were also some challenges that need policy attention for the pension to contribute more sustainable impacts in both rural and urban areas of Lesotho. The overall conclusion was that, spatially, the impacts of the universal old age pension were felt more in the rural than urban area of the study.

Johnathan Mun   

This article pertains to the development of alternative ship cost modeling methodologies. Most ship cost modeling has been traditionally weight-based. This approach drives the U.S. Navy to select smaller ships that, consequently, require custom-designed shipboard components. This research project is intended to help determine if there is a more accurate way to empirically predict, forecast, and model ship cost. Current and forecasted U.S. Department of Defense budgets require identifying, modeling, and estimating the costs of shipbuilding. Information and data were obtained via publicly available sources and were collected, collated, and used in an integrated risk-based cost and schedule modeling methodology. The objective of this study is to develop a comprehensive cost modeling strategy and approach, and as such, notional data were used. Specifically, we used the Arleigh Burke Class Guided Missile Destroyer DDG 51 Flight I, Flight II, Flight IIA, and Flight III as a basis for the cost and schedule assumptions, but the modeling approach is extensible to any and all other ships within the U.S. Navy. The results will be used to develop recommendations and develop a cost modeling tool on how to implement ship cost forecasts. This example will provide a roadmap for other new ship cost modeling by the U.S. Navy, thereby improving effectiveness and increasing cost savings.

Maja RoĆŸman   and Vesna Čančer   

The main objective of the paper is to determine the impact of adequate working conditions for older employees on work engagement of older employees in financial services companies in Slovenia. The research is based on the implementation of a factor analysis by which we wanted to reduce the large number of variables into a smaller number of factors. With those factors, we performed a regression analysis. Based on the results, we confirmed the hypothesis that adequate working conditions for older employees have a significant positive impact on work engagement of older employees in financial services companies in Slovenia. From this point of view, financial services companies should apply appropriate measures to reduce workload as well as to contribute to employees' well-being and better workplace performance, which is reflected in work engagement of older employees.

Pallavi Tomar Mishra   Abhishek Mishra   and Sudhinder Singh Chowhan   

According to the survey it was found that the current education system focuses more on rote learning of subjects which is leading to the poor quality of education system, but to fill the handed to professional work environment and application oriented. To build this requirement gap, freshers are to be passed through a foundation on training programmer by employees for few months before they come on the job. For long term sustainable outcome, current Indian education system is to be more application oriented. Around the world, employers, educators, policymakers, training organizations and others have recognized the critical importance of tackling the skills gap. The main key characteristics for the teaching and learning across the various fields of i.e. general, academic, vocational and technical, should incorporate various strategies, which wholly depends on learning environment, teaching methods of learners and various supporting factors. In order to increase the economy of the country and to solve the skills gap, it is very much important that higher education (Professional and Technical) should be allowed to increase access and completion, and evolve with career opportunities. These strategies are determined partly on subject matter to be taught and partly by the nature of learners developing reciprocity and cooperation. Through the research paper, researcher want to attempt to find solution in analyzing the role of higher education in bridging the skill gap and other related factors on professional institutes of Jaipur by drawing certain conclusion confronting a problem.

Ni Nyoman Ayuningsih   

In line with reforms in the health sector, Sanglah General Hospital in Denpasar continues to improve the quality of its services to satisfy patients. This study aims to determine the effect of service quality variables on the satisfaction of inpatients care at Sanglah Hospital Denpasar. The type of this study was a cross-sectional study with 78 respondents of Askes patients who were hospitalized or their families at Sanglah Hospital Denpasar. The research sample was taken through a purposive sampling technique according to the inclusion criteria. The variables of this study consisted of tangibles, reliability, responsiveness, assurance, and empathy as independent variables and patient satisfaction as the dependent variable. The instrument of this study was a questionnaire with a 5 level Likert scale measurement. Data were analyzed by multiple linear regression analysis. The results of the study show that the dimensions of service have a significant simultaneous effect on patient satisfaction. Next partially three dimensions of service: Responsiveness. Assurance and Empathy have a positive and significant effect on the satisfaction of Askes patients. The dominant free variable is Responsiveness. It is suggested that the tangible and reliability service dimensions can be implemented consistently to satisfy patients.

Hsu Wen-Chung   Cheng Yi-Ting   and Ho Wen-Cheng   

This research explores the relations between the two financial performance indexes of return on assets (ROA) and return on sales (ROS) using the index of corporate social responsibility (CSR), and categorizes. It also screens out 150 sample enterprises according to their different ownerships based on the CSR initiative formulated by CSR Research Center, Division of Economics, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences and the materials about performance of enterprises in implementing CSR during 2009-2014. The empirical results of this research show that: (1) a sound responsibility management system can help put in place the communication channels with stakeholders, properly handle disputes in managing CSR issues, and maintain long-term partnership; (2) by implementing market responsibility, enterprises can promote industrial development, advocate the idea of fair competition and system guarantee, and help the whole value chain to yield prominent and continuous benefits; (3) some private enterprises are not aware of the transition of management modes, for they hold that shouldering social responsibility is to cause increased expenditure and ultimately short-term cost expenditure, hence leading to lowering operating income; and (4) the expenditure incurred to enterprises in undertaking environment responsibility behaviors can hardly be responded to in a short term, so it is likely to cause declining financial performance.

Yi-Hui Ho   and Chieh-Yu Lin   

To pursue sustainable development, integration of environmental concepts and business operations has become a fundamental part of value creation strategy. Environmental management has received sustained research interest over time. Organizational green mindfulness is a way of organizational attitude during environmental management marked by preoccupation with failure, reluctance to simplify interpretations, sensitivity to operations, commitment to resilience, and deference to expertise. The study expects that firms should keep mindfulness thinking while engaging in environmental management. The main purpose of this study is to propose a theoretical framework exploring the moderating effects of logistics service type and firm size on the reasons for keeping green mindfulness. The reasons proposed in the study include economic reason and social reason. Logistics service type and firm size would moderate the influences of economic reason and social reason on keeping green mindfulness.

Leila khaouani   and Chaib Baghdad   

The reform is a continuous process that changes with the development of markets, but are not seen as an application to one set of rules, as for instance administrative reform is the artificial inducement of administrative transformation against resistance that has existed ever since men conceived better ways of organizing their activities. The present study concerns the ITC services that allow people to be connected to manage their business, either commercial or personal. The problem is a necessity to reform this sector, which is controlled by the state according to the principals of auto-organisation. The aim of this article is to highlight the necessity existence of an independent entity of arbitration, with trying to overcom all barriers for this sector considered as the most important infrastructure in realising balanced (or equilibrated) development. The findings of our study summarized in the changing are inevitable to develop the ITC sector in Arab countries, where it is characterized by monopolistic given services. Algeria is among those countries that tried to organize its sector at the beginning of this century, by providing a good law context and making it more attractive for investments.

Jeong Gi-Uk   Kim Hyeong-Kyun   and Kang Dong-Jin   

The Korean War (1950.6.25 to 1953.7.27) originated in the transition period of the Cold War of the 20th century. This war lasted about 65 years after the Ceasefire Agreement, and it is the longest surviving war that has not ended. During this time, the memories of war are gradually being forgotten, and unfortunately the traces of the war are gradually being dismantled or extinguished. This study aims to list and classify the traces and memories of Korean War in these times-that is, the Korean War heritages remaining in South Korea-in order to conduct a survey on the people's recognition about them and to explore the values inherent in them. As a result, this study discovered a total of 413 heritages and revealed the fact that the people were aware of DMZ-related heritage, Korean Wartime Capital Busan-related heritage, Operation Chromite-related heritage, and Geoje/Tongyeong Prisoner of War (POW) Camp-related heritage as the representative Korean War Heritage. This study has an academic significance as the baseline data for a comprehensive survey on Korean War heritages in South Korea and North Korea may be used in the era of unification in the future.

Ezekiel Jide Fayomi   Ziska Fields   Kayode Kingsley Arogundade   Hammed Olabode Ojugbele   Folake Ogundipe   and Idris Olayiwola Ganiyu   

Purpose- The conventional mode of teaching entrepreneurship in most of the Nigerian universities seems to not be sufficiently adequate to increase entrepreneurial action to decrease rates of graduates' unemployment. Design/methodology/ approach- Adopting primary and secondary sources of data, the article examined the influence of teaching and learning methods on perceived desirability for entrepreneurship. A total of 701 questionnaires were administered, of which 664 questionnaires were validly retrieved through combining stratified and systematic sampling techniques. The investigation yielded 94% response rate from the population groups of lecturers, postgraduate and final year students of three selected universities in Southwest Nigeria. Inferential statistics including Pearson's correlation, t-tests, and chi-square at p-value (0.05) level of significance were employed for the statistical analyses. Findings-The university-level entrepreneurship training demands cognitive and non-cognitive activities as the minimum benchmark for learning entrepreneurship. The operating curriculum predominately remains academics while performance assessments are written examinations which are mark driven. A significant positive correlation was established between the use of more theoretical learning patterns and the mind-sets for remunerative employment, as opposed desirability for entrepreneurship. Research limitations/implication- The content of information in this study limits the results of the research to the studied participants, which also limits the reach of the study to the three universities, where the study was conducted. Originality/ value- The value is a guiding framework that promotes paradigm shift from perspective highly curriculum content-based approach to a more inclusive outcome-based model, that is more of collaboration, partnership and engagement with key stakeholders in entrepreneurial development.

Tran Ngoc Son   

Economic Zone (EZ) is an economic term formed in the late 1970s of the twentieth century, originating in China under Deng Xiaoping. The first economic zone of this country is called Special Economic Zone (SEZ)-Shenzhen. The essence of EZ is a deformation of the industrial park that was first formed in 1896 in England. However, in terms of organization, functional areas within EZ are more diversified than industrial zones; in particular, the policies of the state have a higher priority, the scale of the territory is often larger. In order to organize and manage the EZ in general and in particular, Governments should rely on the criteria for establishment decision. In particular, macroenvironment such as Politics, Economy, Society, Technology (PEST) are the main factors affecting the organization and management, the latter study will refer to the division this influence.

Thomas Kronberger   and Leonidas Papakonstantinidis   

The aim of this paper is to show the bargaining possibilities when there are three involved parties on a labor market and two of them are active decision-makers. The continuous conflict is between the three main bargaining power poles i.e., State; Company; Citizen. This conflict landscape is directly correlated with the development dynamical trends coming especially from the rapid rate of world urbanization: Market forces based on Instant Reflection Individual Mixed Strategies (IRIMS) between the three power poles i.e. Business, Citizen and the Community (State) shape the labor market by a continuous dynamic evolution. We will show possible solutions for increasing the benefit for all three parties. The "win-win-win papakonstantinidis model" with a 3-ple view in the labor market as the result of a continuous conflict among interests' power poles' i.e. Business-Citizen and the Community (State) for the domination over the labor market The 3ple win involvement, able to create equilibrium point in a pay-off matrix coming from "best responses", of the three stakeholders As introduction basic statistical data from Greece and Germany will be presented and structured. After this the different behaviors of the parties in both countries will be regarded and their bargaining success will be illustrated.

Jeff Barrows   and William Seyfried   

Since Major League Baseball instituted free agency in 1976, scholars have observed notable increases and decreases in player performance around their eligibility to negotiate as free agents. Beginning with a sample of 305 position players (non-pitchers), this study uses two competing theories of human behavior to explain such changes in player performance between their contract year (year before becoming eligible for free agency) and free-agent year (year after signing a free-agent contract) and explores the impact of player performance on organization revenue in the free-agent year. Based on a comparison of actual and estimated performance in the contract year, 51 players who underperformed were found to have improved performance in their free-agent year and their contributions to organization revenue exceeded their salary. In contrast, 50 players who overperformed in their contract year experienced reduced performance in their free-agent year and their salary exceeded their contributions to organization revenue.

Husejin Duraković   

This research work deals with modification of the color of paper in commercial clupak dynamic image registration. According to the standard technology of production of kraft pulp, from which the production clupak paper, the paper obtained is dark brown in color. Market demand is based on quality and price of the product. Step further in these demands is demand for certain balanced and brighter shade of color of sack kraft paper. Lately it is demanded from our company to produce sack kraft paper with lighter shade of color. This problem can be solved in two ways: by coloring pulp fiber and by bleaching it. Methods of production of sack kraft paper with lighter shade, as well as results achieved, will be presented in this document.

Tutku Tuncalı Yaman   

The main objective of this study is presenting usage of conjoint data in one of the multi criteria decision techniques (MCDM) ELECTRE II in the context of decision-making process. The approach has been implemented by establishing an objective ranking of private universities in the context of university candidates' preferences. ELECTRE II procedure is performed on the factors affecting the preference of private universities among candidates and the investment expenditure distribution of the universities. Preference data were collected by Choice-Based Conjoint (CBC) method from 296 students who were in the preference process after 2016 university entrance exams in Turkey. The results obtained from CBC were used as input in ELECTRE II in order to determine a complete and objective ranking of universities. As a result, it could be seen how the rankings differ according to student preferences when investment expenditure areas of universities change the weights of factors. This approach also allowed us to describe the market situation in general thus each university could make a comparative assessment of its own.

MichĂšle Paulin   Kaspar Schattke   and Ronald J. Ferguson   

This research investigated the impacts of the diverse framings of corporate and activist NGOs website communications of a proposed Canadian oil-sands pipeline on participants' perceptions of a) the tripartite sustainability values of environmental safety, economic benefits and community social relations and b) the willingness to join the corporate and activist NGOs online networks. Given the importance of sustainability issues in business education curricula and research, the participants were drawn from a population of undergraduate students. They were exposed online to either neutral information (control group), or randomly exposed initially to either the Corporate or Activist NGOs website communications. These exposures were subsequently reversed creating a combined group exposed to both agenda framings. Results demonstrated the persuasive power of both communication framings. The Corporate communication created positive perceptions of tripartite sustainability values, whereas the Activist NGOs' created negative perceptions. After exposures to the opposite communications, the Corporate group's perceptions changed from positive to negative, whereas the Activist NGOs perceptions only became somewhat less negative. Also there was a stronger willingness to join an Activist NGO rather than the corporate online action network. The empirical findings reflect the powerful diverse impacts of agenda framing on a highly controversial societal issue. Concerned citizens, researchers, politicians and academics should not restrict their website consultation to just one framing of such complex wicked issues. The present findings also have important implications for developing a more balanced and ethical business curriculum in the area of sustainability and common good.

Sarita Solanki Rana   Bhupender Som   S. K. Jain   and Rajbir Singh   

Entrepreneurship is the most fascinating component of modern day economy. Lots of training programs related to entrepreneurship emerged due to this. This paper is an attempt to determine the impact of entrepreneurship orientation on potential entrepreneurs. In particular, the study takes into account the perceived benefits before and after the particular program and maps the gap between perceived benefits and actual delivery. A sample of 311 respondents (participants) is collected for the study. The participants were engage in an Entrepreneurship Development Program run by Indian Institute of Technology, New Delhi (India). The paper discusses parameters around which Entrepreneurship Development Program is knitted. A structure schedule is prepared and data is collected on a five point scale in the beginning and at the end of the program. Collected data is fed to SPSS and gap between perceived and actual delivery is identified along with significance. Motivation to start a venture is also observed through structured approach. Necessary descriptive and inferential statistical tools are applied as and when needed. Results are presented trough necessary graphs and tables.

Yao Tang   Yuan Zhao   and Zhian Chen   

During Chinese "socio-economic transition period" from 1978 to the present day, with the reform and rapid growth of the economy, the Chinese social structure underwent enormous changes. In addition to this, the situation of Chinese women has also changed. Contemporary Chinese women are in a quite different position from their "pre-communist," "traditional" counterparts. Over the past several decades, more equalitarian policies have made a great deal of difference, not only to women's own self-identification, but also to their social milieu. This paper studies the Chinese women transition from class and gender perspective, not only reviewing the social class transition and women's socio-economic role changes, but also putting forward the method issues how to study the gender issues and gender social stratification. This perspective innovation offers an important contribution to the understanding of current woman issues in China.

Getulio K. Akabane   Fernando JosĂ© Bussola   Antonio CĂ©sar Galhardi   JosĂ© Martino Neto   and Takeshy Tachizawa   

The present study seeks to identify the processes of reverse logistics as a differential factor in the improvement of the product and / or process, through the case study in the reverse logistics of a recall of a large proportion of airbags for the purpose of performing the experience report through a single case study. The company in question has more than 200 points of service distributed throughout the great Brazilian territory, and is segmented according to Figure 3 below into 5 (five) large regions, according to the distribution and regions served by 5 loads. Outbound logistics follows the full flow of the supply chain, that is, from the origin (factory) to the dealers (delivery points), through points of consolidation of cargo due to long distance and fractional distribution (low volume). In fact, a "recall" process, where there is a whole commitment to image, end customer and understand the real root cause of the problem, reverse logistics becomes a differentiated process in the preservation of industrial operation. It is an innovative and unique initiative within the automotive segment, where the safety and reliability factor has a primary emphasis on corporate image at the global level. Reverse logistics had a decisive and important role in the recall process where procedures and flows are designed exclusively to meet this specific demand. The result leads to important reflections in which the cost factor has implications on the company's results in the short term. However, over time the qualitative question is the element that ensures the image and the fundamental institutional continuity that can differentiate in the long term. This paper concludes with the discussion of theoretical and practical contributions, limitations, and avenues for future research.

Binafeigha Mumere Sarah   and Asawo Soye Peniel   

This study examined the relationship between knowledge management and employee efficiency in deposit money banks in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. From a study population of 680 bank employees in Port Harcourt, the sample size of 248 respondents was determined using the sample size determination table. Adopting the cross-sectional survey design, the obtained data was analysed at the primary and secondary levels with the mean score and Pearson's Product Moment Correlation Co-efficient respectively. Results from the analysis revealed that there is a significant and positive relationship between the four dimensions of knowledge management (i.e. knowledge identification, acquisition, sharing, and application) and employee efficiency. The study concluded that the knowledge asset of banks is an important predictors of their employees' efficiency. In view of this, the study recommends that banks should invest in enhancing their knowledge management practices so as to enhance the performance level of their employees with regards to their efficiency.

Mark Edwards   and Lee Styger   

This paper provides some insight regarding the causes and implications of waste within Aid and Development programs and the impact on Aid effectiveness. In order to understand this better, a comparative case study analysis of three Aid and Development programs using a systems mapping process was used to identify major constraints within these supply chain systems. This work identified a complex matrix of nodal links within these systems that correspond to the flow of both funding and value creation. The findings point to Aid and Development supply chain systems being a closed loop system where much of the funding can be retained within the system and not distributed to the recipient to the expected level. Importantly this paper discussed a "law" of diminishing returns in Aid and Development programs, where it is identified that the larger the supply chain systems is, the more funding remains within that system and as such, it demonstrates that there are significant overarching constraints limiting the impact and effectiveness of Aid and Development to the end recipient.

Mohamad Zambri Mohd Darudi   Lim Bee Lan   and Hasbullah Haji Ashaari   

Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) is a complex and very delicate process in semiconductor. In typical 30,000 wafer capacity of single foundry business model, the CMOS product loads are mixed from various technologies to serve wider market segments. Total devices can be ranged from 100 to 200. This approach creates variables for process time, equipment usage, number of processing steps which leads to inconsistent WIP profiling at respective time period. Approach to maximize the output is used by changing the methodology of WIP movement through a good WIP Profile chart management. A dynamic WIP management approached can improve the FAB out ~ 5%. It will also help the factory to make a right decision to manage the WIP balancing especially when we face BullWIP situation. The Production Control will get a good benefit from this study. A linear plan is no longer work in managing BullWIP situation and an approach on how to improve the line balancing is required.

SaĂąd Benbachir   and Mohamed Habachi   

This paper studies the impact of the internal modelling on the calculation of expected credit loss in the framework of the international standard IFRS 9. Indeed, the probability of default of counterparty depends on the model used for the conception of the internal rating system. The multitude of probabilistic models renders uncertain and imprecise, the calculation of the expected loss for the same SMEs portfolio of a Moroccan bank, as well as the comparison of losses over time due to the non-permanence of the rating system used. As a result, the regulator will be unable to guarantee an equitable and transparent system of provisioning of the losses because of the absence of standardization of the elaboration process of the rating tool. To show this risk associated with the multitude of models, this paper studied the impact of choice of the model on the expected credit loss, by calculating of the probability of default for several types of modelling based respectively on the pure logistic regression and the logistic regression on the principal components.

Elvir Čizmić   Senad Softić   and Armin Talić   

The aim of the research is to determine how the Career and Entrepreneurship Opportunities Conference, as a unique combination of academic and student's entrepreneurship, content affects the students' personality development in context of their employability perception. The study was used a qualitative approach for problem introduction and mostly quantitative approach to research. Data collection was conducted by using LimeSurvey application with lasting of sixty days for sample of students population that have been participated to the conference, with the use of a special questionnaire created for this study. The populations covered by this research are all participants of the Career and Entrepreneurship Opportunities Conference in the period of 2014-2016 and it makes more than five thousand students. This research is aimed to present effects of nonconventional ways of matching between higher-education institutions and labor market in Bosnia and Herzegovina in sense of students' employability as most important matching component, using as well some good practical evidences connected to the Career and Entrepreneurship Opportunities Conference content, activities and effects.

Rara Hyeseong Jeon   

This paper explores which mechanism is involved between firms' global strategy and R&D collaboration mode. Innovation is originally linked to the role of R&D which is the most significant strategy in technological companies (Yip, 1989; Conte & Vivarelli, 2014). To penetrate global markets, firms, especially SMEs, select local partners for R&D to minimize risks and save cost, whereas few firms choose global partners. It would be easy if we could collaborate with partners abroad who are in the target market and understand their market needs. However, global partnership is challenging for SMEs due to the lack of networks, lack of top level human resources, lack of budget, and lack of experience. There are certain criteria involved when firms select partners or conduct in-house R&D. To examine the criteria, we select high-tech firms who export and collaborate R&D with local and/or global partners. The purpose of our study is to encourage SMEs to achieve globalization and benefit from collaboration with local and/or global partners. The impact of collaborative innovation on SMEs and how it influences globalization is valuable to examine. We used the Upsala model for understanding the steps of globalization, and ‘Global Strategy' theory (Laanti, Gabrielsson, & Gabrielsson, 2007) to analyze case firms' global strategies. Our study explores this phenomenon for the first time: How do SMEs leverage globalization successfully through different types of R&D partners? At the end of our study, we recommend an appropriate collaboration mode for each case firm based on the firm's circumstances and the decision of globalization strategy.

Kate Trajkova   Marko Andonov   Zoran Mihajloski   and Marija Kojchevska   

The transformative power of economic policies in the European market increasingly brings into question the responsibility of business leaders about the effects of corporate activity on the social environment. Following the trend of achieving competitive advantage in the market and ensuring sustainable development through the production of sustainable social values, world business leaders apply the concept of social responsibility within the corporate governance. For the contemporary world, the approach represents a new model of economic democracy, whose political function is mirrored in their efforts to achieve sustainable development based on economic, environmental and social justice. The main focus of scientific interest is placed on the process of creating CSR policies determined by the EERI framework of Organizational performance as a process on organizational level and integration of CSR concept into organizational strategy. The research was conducted in 155 Macedonian companies from a deliberate target sample of companies. According to the principles of general methodology and specifics of the subject, the research was conducted on two levels: theoretical and empirical. The results of the research confirmed the significant influence of each of the dimensions of the organizational performance framework (EERI) on the process of creating CSR policies.

Albina Amin   

Women entrepreneurship is the process where women run a small or medium business with different factors of production, undertake risks and provide employment to others. It plays a key role in the economic growth of Bangladesh. This paper aims to focus on the online clothing stores and boutiques of women entrepreneurs by using a purposeful sampling method where in-depth interviews were carried out over a four to five days period. It utilized a qualitative methodology by conducting interviews with nine women entrepreneurs of online clothing stores located in Dhaka city. It also explores how women are influenced by socioeconomic factors, in addition to their role as wives, mothers and homemakers. Some of the meaningful units are abstracted, which were discussed with the interviewees until a basic agreement of terms could be made. This paper is evaluating the position of women in online clothing stores, ideas of new target market and identified problems in this sector. The findings of this paper will help others to develop their business using limited resources and financial capital via technology. Moreover, this article attempts to disclose how the participation of women entrepreneurs in national and international fairs lead the country towards future growth in this sector.

Pj. Forrest   and William S. Piper   

This paper explores the relationship between Marketing and Artists and proposes that it is a relationship that is beneficial to both parties. Once there was a perception that art must be non-commercial to be considered art. This does not take into account that art must be recognized and accepted by society to attain the value and recognition [1] the artist desires. We postulate that this acceptance can be gained by exposure through marketing as well as traditional artistic avenues. Examples are given of how some of the most famous art today became famous not because of the artistry, but because of an external force unrelated to the art. We examine 4 artists – Warhol, Lautrec, Rockwell and Steinlen – who are as famous, or even more famous, due to their commercial art. Examples are given of how some of the most famous art today became famous not because of the artistry but because of an external force unrelated to the art. We examine 4 artists – Warhol, Lautrec, Rockwell and Steinlen – who are as famous, or even more famous, due to their commercial art. Would Lautrec or Steinlen ever have been heard of if not for their iconic poster ads of the late 1800’s? And while Warhol and Rockwell didn’t become famous for advertising exactly, Warhol gained fame by painting a can of soup, and Rockwell was best known for his Saturday Evening Post covers. Art and marketing are natural allies.

Peter Woodlock   and Sheen Liu   

We examine the impact that Internal Revenue Code Section 162(m) had on pay for performance relationships for two sets of firms- those U.S. firms that qualified their CEO’s (Chief Executive Officer’s) annual bonus under Section 162(m) and those that did not take such steps during the years 1992 to 2003. We hypothesize that the link between pay and objective measures of performance would improve more for the Section 162(m) qualifying firms classified as “subjective evaluators” of CEO performance in years prior to Section 162(m). We also hypothesize no change in pay for performance for those firms that did not qualify certain of their CEO’s pay programs under Section 162(m). Our regression results are generally consistent with our hypotheses that states that observed pay for performance improvements associated with Section 162(m)’s passage were largely driven by firms that qualified their pay programs and which based their CEO’s compensation on subjective performance measures prior to the passage of Section 162(m). We also look at the benefits (in terms of tax savings) or the loss (in terms of added tax costs) incurred by companies which qualified and those that did not qualify their CEO’s annual bonus as performance based under Section 162(m). We find that the benefits from qualifying the CEO’s bonus as performance based were the highest for those companies which had used subjective criteria to evaluate a CEO’s annual performance prior to qualifying this compensation as performance based. To us, this suggests that subjective based performance measures have value to a company and that forfeiting the use of such measures requires that a benefit be received for doing so.

Chung-Hua Shih   Ching-Chih Wu   and Tung-Hsiao Yang   

We analyze the information advantage of insiders and institutional investors from the efficiency of internal capital market defined in Billett and Mauer [1]. The empirical evidence shows three major findings in this paper. First, the inefficient subsidies to constrained firms have significantly negative impact on the firm’s long-term performance. In addition, the diversified firms with transfer segments, both efficient and inefficient transfer, have significantly positive effect on the firm’s performance. Second, the insiders and institutional investors of diversified firms may use similar information regarding the internal capital market because they show the similar trading behavior with respect to efficient subsidies to both constrained and non-constrained segments. Finally, the insiders play a more important role in the firms’ long-term performance. In sum, we conclude that both institutional investors and insiders have some information advantage of internal capital market. Insiders, however, have stronger impact on the diversified firms’ long-term performance.

Feng Xiangjun   

It is widely received that personal records are a kind of unique documentary evidence for both individual and the society. Thus, same care is required for the preservation of personal records as for public records. While personal archiving in the analogue environment has been extensively studied by scholars from different fields, the rapidly changing web environment are raising new challenges on personal information behavior, further, personal digital archiving. To effectively address these challenges, it is important to first understand what the individuals’ perception and behavior of personal digital archiving are. The proposed presentation aims to contribute to this knowledge by discussing the preliminary results of a mixed-method study on the behavior and perception of personal digital archiving of Chinese university students. More specifically, the mixed-method study is approached sequentially by first using a web-based questionnaire to investigate Chinese university students’ perception of personal digital archiving when using email and blogs, which is followed by a semi-structured interview of information professionals to solicit their opinions on the results of the web-based questionnaire and the role of information professionals for facilitating personal digital archiving. The results of this study will shed light on Chinese university students’ awareness of personal records preservation, the measures used for personal records preservation, the difficulties encountered, and responsibilities of different stakeholders (e.g., individual, web service provider, and information professionals) for personal digital archiving. This knowledge will help identify focal areas for future personal digital archiving research.

Vukenkeng Andrew Wujung   Cornelius Mbifung Lambi   Dobdinga Cletus Fonchamnyo   Forbe Hodu Ngangnchi   and Muafueshiangha Ibrahim Menkeh   

Current trend in the use or misuse of environmental resources raises strong sustainability issues and the need for preservation. But, should the environment be preserved at the expense of mankind? If the term ‘sustainability’ means the total subjection of the present generation to hardship and misery in favour of the wild (nature), then, ‘sustainability’ is not sustainable. This paper investigates into the quality of life of the Erat and the Resettlement community, formerly known as Ikondo Ikondo I of the South West Region of Cameroon using survey and retrospective designs. In reporting the untold conservation story of the two communities around the Korup National Park (KNP), primary data was collected from 180 participants using 5 point Likert scale questionnaire, and analyzed using the Taylor Linearized Standard Error Correction Technique. The result supports the hypothesis that wild nature is more ‘valuable’ than humans around the KNP as the population continues to be deliberately or otherwise subjected to hardship and misery. With an overall significant result tested using the Fisher’s ratio, and while calling on the authorities to adopt measures that reduce poverty and provide social services and justice, the paper strongly advocates for a drastic shift from fortress to man-centred conservation. It is completely unacceptable that in the 21^st Century in Africa, man should be sacrificed for wild nature, no matter what, as he can conveniently live with nature. To achieve this global goal, conservation authorities should report the real impact of their activities.

D. Prochazkova   and J. Prochazka   

The aim of all people is human security and development. Therefore, they need technological facilities, which ensure energy, services and products for life. Present cognition shows that safety of technological facilities is based on copping with risks. Human cognition contains a lot of knowledge and experiences with risks, but in reality only part of them are used in practice. The aim of research, the results of which are presented, was the judgment, how in practice connected with complex technological facility safety it is used the present human cognition on work with risks. With regard to world dynamic development it is necessary the priority risks to monitor and to cope with them during time, and also to measure the respective safety. At measure of rate for safety level we use the known experience that the better coping with relevant risks, the higher facility safety level is. The analysis of based publications and data from real practice shows that seven domains at work with risks are important. The paper shows the results of critical judgment of individual techniques that are used at work with risks in technological facilities in practice.

Jim I. Unah   and Waheed O. Dawodu   

The Paper aims to discover whether the D & I (Diversity and Inclusiveness) Philosophy as a Business Imperative impacts upon organizational growth and corporate profits; as well as acts as a powerful employee-motivator for forward-looking organizations. Consequently, the purpose of the Paper is to show that it is imperative for organizational top management to put in place a workplace philosophy that respects, values, and harnesses the fruitfulness of ideas, backgrounds, and perspectives of a diverse workforce. This is because managing diversity seems to be an imperative for corporate profitability and increased turnovers. The methodology employed in this Paper is the qualitative, research-based approach, whereby the researcher traces the history of progress in various fields of human endeavors which seems to indicate that developmental ideals have often come from non-conformists - "the peacocks"– who do not accept the status quo. Research outcomes thus seem to suggest that geniuses often challenged popular views, and revolutionized human thoughts and ideas. Clearly therefore findings from a wide variety of successful and enduring business organizations have indicated that of the five types of birds that exist in an organization, viz., the Penguins, the Peacocks, the Pigeons, the Sparrows, and the Ostriches, it is the non-conformist peacocks that lead the way. Further, findings indicate that negative assumptions, "stereo-types" and beliefs about other races, ethnic groups, nationalities, religions, age, genders, and skills impair organizational development and corporate profitability. Finally, findings indicate that diversity is now an issue because the contemporary world is a global village in which customers and markets that organisations serve are becoming more and more diverse.

S. M. Monirul Islam   Abul Kalam   and Afia Fahmida   

This paper investigates the determinants of consumers' choice of semi processed frozen snacks food products (especially snacks category) and develops an empirical understanding of the factors affecting customers' choice behavior. We have chosen this study to look specifically at processed frozen snacks and breakfast products as they represent a rapidly increasing segment of the restaurant snacks and breakfast replacement category. In this research descriptive statistics and factor analysis have been conducted to identify the factors that actually affect Consumers' decision in selecting semi processed frozen food products of different brands. Responsiveness has been got regarding the factors like brand image, quality, how much hygiene, price, processing time etc. Eight salient features of the product were selected after a pretesting consumer survey and initial discussion with the channel members. After analyze the total variance it is found that three principal components are liable for more than 60% of total variance, each of which initial Eigen value is also more than 01 (required). After varimax rotated component matrix analysis it is found that 5 variables i.e. product quality, price, taste, availability and competitive superiority, are strongly correlated with the three principal components.

Marjan Bojadjiev   Ana Tomovska Misoska   Biserka Mirocevic   and Miodraga Stefanovska-Petkovska   

This paper focuses on a very important aspect of organizational functioning: organizational culture. This aspect has been linked to numerous indicators of organizational success and there are a number of efforts to measure it. However, research on organizational culture has been sparse in southeast Europe, especially for small and medium enterprises. Therefore, this paper proposes a new instrument for measuring organizational culture that was developed in southeast Europe and tests its applicability in small and medium Enterprises from the region. The study was carried out in the Republic of Macedonia using a convenience sample of employees from three companies. The results show the value of the findings for the companies as well as the applicability of the new instrument. Further validation using a representative sample is suggested.

NadĂšge Firsova   and Ivan P. Vaghely   

This paper outlines a view of cultural issues, connecting it to the risk literature. Culture, as a risk-driver of the firm, has not previously been fully explored. International business scholars tend to ignore either the external or the internal aspects of a firm's cultural environment, emphasizing only one side: either cultural diversity issues within the organization or host country cultural challenges. Using strategic management, this paper suggests that cultural risk should consider both out there according to product-market-positioning concepts and in here with the resource-based view of the firm to capture the essence of the firm's cultural dynamics. This paper proposes a theoretical framework to assess cultural risks under an enterprise-wide risk management (ERM) process to better manage such risks. The suggested framework can serve as a tool to benefit researchers as well as practitioners.

Charles Mavhunga   

The dearth of studies to establish the line of fit for the indigenisation policy in Zimbabwe and the enactment of the Zimbabwe Democracy and Economic Recovery Act [S.494] [ZIDERA]¹ by the United States of America [USA] to challenge the government of Zimbabwe`s land reform and indigenisation policies motivated the production of this paper. Policy makers, members of the public, politicians, new farmers and other influential business pundits in Zimbabwe participated in the study. The study used non-experimental descriptive research design combining the deductive and inductive research approaches to be comprehensive. A desk review of secondary sources such as the indigenization Act [Chapter: 14:33]², publications, policy guidelines and other relevant material was sought to establish the theoretical proposition. Questionnaires and interviews were the main research instruments. The study findings were that developing countries were getting impoverished whilst developed countries were getting enriched by the way poor states got integrated into the world system. The basis of this result is that poor countries depend on exports of primary products whilst rich nations export processed goods to poor countries at exorbitant prices, thereby deepening the poverty level. This violates the United Nations General Assembly resolution [1803.[xvii]³ which entrenches the Principle of Permanent Sovereignty over Natural Resources.(PPSNR).To correct the imbalance, the study conclusion supports the need to indigenize the economy, but with a policy shift on the modalities in the configuration of the policy framework. The study also recommends the adoption of the Line of Fit theory in which indigenisation policy consideration focuses mainly on product beneficiation than continual exports of primary products. This indigenisation model need to embrace a 360 model which embraces mainly indigenized education systems, indigenized economic models, indigenized financial and management literacy and an indigenized corporate governance policy document for Zimbabweans and the removal of sanctions by the United States of America to give a chance to Zimbabweans to grow the economy to a 100 billion mark by 2030.

AndrĂ©e Piecq   

To verify the hypothesis that burnout is a symptom of the 21st century, this article analyzes burnout in organizations. Burnout in organizations is studied by: The evaluation of the organization's functioning; the diagnosis of the organization as "operative" or as "inoperative" in order to choose steering strategies. Our society and the organizations are considered as isomorphic structures. The methodology used here is the "Giroscope"[1] and the "12 guiding principles [1]" which are two patterns used to analyze human organizations. General explanation about the "Giroscope" analysis: When the target is to make an evaluation of the functioning of an organization: The contexts are considered and the "12 guiding principles" are used; The organization's diagnosis gives the opportunity to characterize it as "operative" or "inoperative"; This diagnosis is made to allow the development of steering strategies in order to enable the modification of the organization; To introduce modifications in "operative" organizations, the structure must not be changed. However, in an "inoperative" organization, it is necessary to change the structure. The hypothesis of this article is that organizations, in which burnout emerges, have their structure diagnosed as "inoperative". The necessary strategy to change this structure into an "operative" one is "the mutation".

JosĂ© Artur Vieira   Marcela do Carmo Silva   Carlos Francisco SimĂ”es Gomes   and Marcos dos Santos   

This paper proposes a model integrates future scenario planning techniques, based on the Multicriteria Decision Aid (MCDA) approach, which can be used as a tool for attending companies' strategic planning, applying it to an engineering company services, located in the State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The motivation of the studied theme is the possibility of applying MCDA techniques added to the future scenario concepts planning as a tool for strategic (and progress) planning. Thus, the usefulness of the proposed model was proven, since it enabled the manager to analyse investment alternatives in the light of the future prospecting conducted. Recent discussions suggest the use of resources in an optimized way due to the increasing scarcity. This fact makes decision-making and strategic planning based on future scenarios a complex task, since it has multiple and uncertain alternatives. A bibliographic review was performed to identify methods are more applicable to the problems. An innovative proposal is made to unite prospective with multicriteria in a compensatory problem; proposing a methodology with six steps.

Ibrahim Makina   and Robert Keng'ara   

The Kenyan sugar sector is characterized by a series of decline and collapse of state funded milling companies despite massive funding by Government of Kenya. This study sought to establish major causes of Nzoia Sugar Company milling cane below daily target of 7000 tonnes, how strategies are formulated, implemented, controlled, and causes of resistance to change. The study employed census approach with target population of 44 staff members due to convenience and sensitivity of the information in the sugar industry. The research design was descriptive. The data for the study was both primary and secondary. Structured and unstructured questionnaires were the main tools for collecting primary data. Data was analyzed using multiple correlation analysis and descriptive statistics. Data was presented through graphs, pie-charts, frequency tables and figures. The findings showed that most of the workers who resisted change were subordinates comprising 67.7% while managers who resisted comprised 6.5%. The correlation significance was 0.05. There was positive correlation between improvement in performance and implementation of the strategies of +0.363. There was a negative correlation between resistance to change and involvement in resistance to change of -0.33. The study recommends involvement of all stakeholders in strategy formulation implementation and control.

Loris Bianco   Sergio Porisiensi   Giulia Baracchini   Laura Battigelli   and Carlo Ceschia   

Ferriere Nord S.p.A., a steel producer from ferrous scrap, in 1998 decided to start the "Zero Waste" project to transform the main process wastes into products to be re-used in a logic of circular economy. 20 years later, since "Zero Waste" project started, the main secondary materials of the EAF (Electric Arc Furnace) process have been reviewed and re-evaluated: the slag from EAF, the slag from ladle furnace, the EAF dust, the iron scale and the refractories. Many companies are now involved in dealing with these materials and established important and stable relations of symbiosis to prepare, transform and finally use them. A company network trusts on regular availability and quality of the new products: scrap dealers, lime producers, zinc producers, aggregates and asphalt producers, highway companies
 Finally, reuse of these materials allows saving equivalent quantities of natural resources: iron ore, basalt, porphyry, limestone, zinc and lead minerals.

Pernille Eskerod   and Jovana Đurić   

A blooming hotel industry has the downside of an increased negative environmental impact. At the same time, many hotel guests and employees have become conscious of eco-friendliness and green practices. In addition, 2017 was by United Nations declared as the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development, with the emphasis on (among other elements) resource efficiency and environmental protection. A hotel that has obtained green certificate(s) promises green services, products, and operations, and possesses thereby (potentially) important strategic assets, when it comes to attracting customers and employees. Many green certifications are offered within the hotel industry, such as for example Green Globe and Green Key. However, which certificate(s) to choose is a strategic choice for the hotel management. In this paper, we examine green certifications in order to determine similarities and differences among them. As part of the research, we analyze the usage of green certificates in different regions (e.g. Southeast Europe). Even though many of the certifications are offered internationally, we identified clear differences in dissemination across regions. In addition to region, our motivation factor analysis shows that belonging to a hotel chain/brand seems to be highly influential on the choice of certificate(s).

Rhoda Saan   Francis Enu-Kwesi   and Remy Faadiwie Nyewie   

The literature generally indicates that succession in family businesses takes the form of transfer from one generation to another, but succession planning appears to be left to chance by many firms. This neglect of succession planning and the emotions generated by the process make owners ill-prepared for succession. The objective of this study was to explore the factors that influence succession planning in family-owned businesses and their importance in ensuring the continuity and prosperity of businesses in the Wa Municipality, Ghana. A random sample of 205 out of 440 family businesses was systematically drawn, and an interview schedule was used to collect data which were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings indicate that higher level of education of founders and communication of the succession decision, comprising the transfer date, and post-succession roles to all key stakeholders affect the succession process and the success of the transfer. When the founder's level of education is relatively high, there is the likelihood of succession planning in the business, but trust seems to be limited with respect to female owners. It is therefore recommended that family-owned businesses in the municipality should be encouraged by supervisory or oversight agencies like the registrar general or National Board for Small Scale Industries to improve their educational level, build trust, and set dates for transfer of responsibilities, specify post-succession roles of incumbents and communicate the succession decision to all key stakeholders in order to improve the succession process and ensure the continuity of the businesses.

I Wayan Pantiyasa   Gede Yoga Kharisma Pradana   and Original Bertuyes Nale   

A waterfall in the village of Senaru became an attractive tour that offers natural attraction of waterfall, and also unique and interesting artificial attraction. This fact can potentially attract visitors. But the data of tourists visitation in the last 5 (five) years had fluctuations. It is necessary to research on tourists' perception about waterfall in the village of Senaru. The purpose of this research is to know the tourists perception about attraction, amenities, accessibilities and ancillary. Respondents are visitors and about 60 visitors were chosen by random. This research uses questionnaire as instrument that consists of attraction, amenity, accessibilities and ancillary aspect. Data then analyze using descriptively. The results show that the perception of tourists are average of respondents having good perception on aspects of the attractions of comfort and hygiene, the diversity and security in tourism area, on aspects of accessibilities of road quality, affordability of public transportation and road directions, on aspects of amenities of parking security and capacity, lodging, the capacity of the place of worship, restaurant, gazebo, and on ancillary aspect of officers speed in ticket sales, officers ability and civility on handling of complaints and officers politeness in the area of a waterfall.

Kristina Mahareva   

The research outlines the issue of specific regional service distribution in small countries' outbound tourism market, as ancillary non-aviation services on the global market of air-passenger transport services (as illustrated by the Latvian market data). The article provides the statistics of passenger flows at Riga airport, which allows evaluating the number of foreign airline passengers arriving in Latvia, considering them as potential consumers of ancillary services in the regional spheres of tourism, leisure, education, etc. The material puts forward the idea of regional service aggregation in the framework of the Next Distribution Capability model introduced by the International Air Transport Association, in cooperation with airline carriers, Global Distribution Systems and international travel associations. The regional aggregator's potential profit was also assessed; and a number of recommendations about its setup and functional structure, as a business company, were offered. PEST-analysis was conducted demonstrating how various factors influence the effectiveness indices for market launches of air-passenger transport services. The paper also emphasizes the expediency of engaging state administration and local government bodies in carrying out a project aimed at creating an aggregator for global distribution of regional services to enhance Latvia's upmarket image and its promotion abroad.

Shahad Alwathnani   and Mostafa Abbas   

Background and Aim: Presence of trainee doctors during consultation may create varying atmospheres during consultation. This study was conducted to assess the attitude of patients towards the presence of trainee doctors during consultation and identify factors related to patient satisfaction during consultation. Methods: We conducted a survey using a 37-item self-administered questionnaire on patients aged 18 to 64 years old who presented for consultation at three Primary Health Centers affiliated to Prince Sultan Military Medical City in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia between May and July 2017. Results: There were 417 respondents, 295 (70.7%) were males. There were 363 respondents (87.0%) who considered the trainee as a member of the medical team, 191 (45.8%) knew that they have the right to refuse examination by the trainee. There were 232 (55.6%) who were affected by the general appearance of the trainee, and 335 (80.3%) were affected by the manners of the trainees. There were 361 (86.6%) participants who preferred to be examined by a trainee in the presence of the treating physician. There were 302 (72.4%) participants who preferred that the trainee be of the same gender as them. There were 38 (9.1%) participants who claimed that they had a negative experience with a trainee. The older aged patients, males and the highly educated were more acceptable to the presence of trainees during consultation and examination. Conclusion: Presence of trainees and medical students during consultation and examination is now well-accepted by patients in Saudi Arabia. However, there still exists a significant amount of patients (particularly the female patients) who are reluctant to be examined by trainees and medical students, therefore requiring the presence and supervision of the attending physician in these instances.

Makoto Hirano   

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) gave us great influence on our society/industries as a kind of paradigm shift in many aspects. For many rural regions in advanced countries, globalization accelerated by ICT advancement caused some negative influences in industries. Manufacturing industry and agriculture in those regions were damaged and stagnated by competing with low cost products/labor-force in merging countries. The stagnation of regional economy also promoted degradation of regional commerce and unemployment that caused depopulation and aging issues in regional community. However, on the other hand, ICT advancement also brought us new potential of regional industries through virtual clustering by networking. Many small enterprises can be virtually integrated through ICT networks and can be enhanced their power by virtual integration such as real industrial clustering. By joining in such clustering, many regional enterprises regained their power. And by restructuring regional industries with those enterprises, regional economy has been recovered in some cases. This study introduces some cases of virtual clustering in industries and some regions recovering their economy by restructuring regional industries. Their manners to restructure regional economy are very suggestive for regional societies to escape from undesirable negative circulation of de-industrialization/unemployment and to realize sustainable development.

Hossein Hakimpoor   and M. Khairabadi   

The effect of information system on decision making is a central concern in the field of information system (IS). Information systems form the backbone of any business process integration and the main objective of information systems is helping decision makers by providing accurate and time based information helping them in making the right decisions in turbulent environment. The present study has been performed to examine the impact of using management information systems (MIS) and conceptual dimensions of information quality on the quality of managerial decisions in public organizations in Iran. Sample of the study was 250 of the managers from 17 public organizations that were chosen randomly and data was collected on 2015. Using artificial neural networks (ANN) analysis results show that MIS and conceptual dimensions of information quality have a positive effect on quality of managerial decisions and this effect is stronger when MIS and conceptual dimensions of information quality are merged.

Marco Berger Garcia   and Carla Aceves Avila   

The focus of this article is to examine how higher education institutions in Mexico are preparing for implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) agenda. Specifically, we have developed a case study of the University of Guadalajara (UdG), the second largest higher education institution in Mexico, by identifying its institutional sustainability programs as preconditions toward the achievement of SDGs. For this purpose, we first analyze the evolution of UdG's sustainability programs and their preliminary results, including participation in nationwide higher education sustainable development partnerships and consortiums. We then explore how these institutional programs might harmonize with the sustainable development goals and targets. Finally, and based on the main environmental issues faced by each region of the state of Jalisco, we propose a statewide SDG preliminary agenda that links UdG's outreach and research programs with sustainable development policies of local governments.

Daniel F. Jennings   Bharani Nagarathnam   and Frederick B. Lawrence   

Wholesale Distribution in the United States is a $6 trillion dollar industry that includes 370,000 businesses that employ 6 million people. With evolving distribution business models, margin pressure, and an aging workforce, distributors are faced with a talent management crisis, especially with hiring, developing and retaining managers and developing a leadership pipeline. Traditionally, distributors promoted for their managerial and leadership positions based on tenure and prior job performance. With an increase in the need for business competitiveness, customer experience, value added services and innovative new solutions, distributors need to develop competency based mid-mangers who can effectively drive change and impact profitability.

Dikaia Chatziefstathiou   Christos Ananiadis   and George Sachinis   

Dourgouti Island Hotel Project is an ongoing programme of cultural activities created by a theatre company in the historical but "forgotten" neighbourhood of Athens, Greece, called Dourgouti. These activities offer not only cultural products but also new ways of living and experiencing the city. A model of cooperation focusing on strong assets of a place can be a new model for local economy. The results of the project mentioned in this paper show the impact of culture on local society as well as some economic benefits, showing the way to a new economy, organized from the "bottom-up".

Nazrul Islam   Sharmina Afrin   Tafannum Tasnim   Md. Pranto Biswas   and Tasnim Shahriar   

Although, the economy of Bangladesh is primarily dependent on agriculture, Readymade Garment (RMG) industry has emerged as the largest earner foreign currency of Bangladesh in recent years. More than 75% of foreign earnings are coming through export from this very important sector of Bangladesh. In study of Islam & Chowdhuri, [1] presently more than four million workers are working in 4,500 RMG companies of Bangladesh in which 90% are illiterate women who are from the rural areas of the country. The policymakers and the employers of this sector claim that the growth of garment sector has helped employing a huge number of rural women that has subsequently developed their socioeconomic. But, it is a concern of the national and internal observers that the compliances like factory laws, industrial relations laws, employment laws, payment of wages laws, ILO standards, ethics applied in this sector are hardly followed by the RMG companies that make the lives of the workers very misery. Sometimes, the female workers are exploited by employing more hours a day without the payment of overtime by capitalizing their illiteracy and submissiveness. Hence, this paper aims at identifying the level of application of the labor laws and the compliances in RMG industry of Bangladesh that is the only protective measures of the large number of female workers of this sector of Bangladesh. A total of 238 workers of this sector were interviewed in this study with a structured questionnaire. Multivariate analysis techniques such as, Factor Analysis and Multiple Regression Analysis were used to analyze the data. Results show that in case of measures for protecting sexual harassment there is a severe problem of the use of the labor laws in this sector followed by physical movement and access control, exit and access path of the company, working hours, and counseling arrangements in the company. This study suggests that the readymade garment companies should address the sexual harassment issue seriously so that the workers will feel safe at their work. They also should focus more on the safety issues, working hours, and counseling of the workers in order to make the working environment more favorable to the workers.

Ahmet Göçen   and Habib Özğan   

While calls for spiritual practices at work increase, the debate to position the concept of Workplace Spirituality (WS) gets thornier. This paper offers a theoretical contribution to the existing debates about spirituality in the workplace in that it addresses the issues of (a) religion, spirituality, and secularity (b) capitalizing the human soul, (c) measuring spirituality, specifically WS (d) indoctrination, (e) the trendy nature of WS. The need for meaning and fulfillment for a greater cause is a long-craved one in organizations. Profit-based organizations have started to consider using spirituality to increase their financial returns by making room for pragmatic spiritual practices, while ontological disputes still continue about whether spirituality could be an asset for inducing profit. Our study starts with a general look at workplace spirituality, continues with criticism and debates rose about "spirituality and a spiritual workplace," and ends with our clarifications regarding these issues.

Kimutai, Gilbert Kiplimo   and Aluvi Patrick Amisi   

Citizen participation is embedded in the Constitution of Kenya 2010 and the County Governments Act of 2012. The responsibility of operationalizing and implementing these provisions lies with both levels of government. Citizen participation is the process through which stake holders input and share control over development initiatives, decisions and resources which affect them. Strengthening citizen participation is a key focus of Kenya's devolution under the constitution and legal framework. This ambitious devolution shifts some key decision making from central to county governments creating a window of opportunity for more "bottom-up" engagement backed by a constitutional and legal framework that include provisions for government to share information, consult the public and regularly gather citizen feedback. Although counties are mandated to facilitate public participation, the actualization and subsequent impact of this aspect of good governance on service delivery is a matter of public debate. This paper sought to investigate the influence of citizen participation in governance on service delivery in Kisumu County. Its objectives were to examine the existing avenues available for citizen participation, to assess the extent of citizen participation in governance in Kisumu County, to examine the challenges hindering effective citizen participation and to assess the contribution of citizen participation in promoting good governance and service delivery in Kisumu County. A sample of 112 respondents was selected for the study. These included 42 county government officials and 70 local residents purposefully selected for the study. Data was collected through interviews, collated and presented in tables and discussions. The findings of the study indicate that public participation has been largely entrenched in key government roles in Kisumu County. The input of the public is sought and co-opted at every stage of the project cycle. The study established that this participation has enhanced public ownership of government projects and promoted accountability. However, the scope and effectiveness of public participation in the County has been hampered by political interference, low turnout in government functions and lack of adequate understanding of government procedures among the community members. The findings suggest that civic education must be intensified to increase the scale and quality of public participation in Kisumu County.

Mark Lari Letoluo   and Lawrence Wangombe   

This study evaluates the socio-economic effects of tourism development on the local community in Narok County, Kenya. It uses descriptive and inferential statistics, the county wants to utilize tourism as an economic development tool to reduce poverty and increase socio-economic wellbeing. Tourism has profound effects on the local community of the destination as it brings economic and socio-cultural changes. Some of the positive economic impacts include; increased direct and indirect employment, enhanced standard of living, more investments, infrastructural development, and new business linkages and opportunities. Some of the identified negative economic impacts include, increased income disparity, increased land price and rent, price hike of essential goods and services, seasonality effects and leakage of earnings. From the findings majority of the tourism assets and well-paid jobs are enjoyed by nonlocal whereas the local community does not benefit its rightful share due to uneven benefit distribution. Major positive socio-cultural impacts include: increased women participation and empowerment, increase in the level of education, enhanced social security and safety. Some negative socio-cultural impacts are grabbing of land from the poor, increased social gap, social disorder and loss of cultural originality. The local community is involved in tourism activities but are not fully involved in the decision making process. This study reveals that the local community is not fully involved in policy formulation process and most stake holders do not consider the socio-economic impacts of tourism development on the local community. Some recommendations are made for the Development of Tourism in Narok County to maximize positive impacts and minimize negative impacts.

Shadia S. Assaf Bortolazzo   EugĂȘnio Cavallazzi   and Amir Mattar Valente   

This study aims to present the results of a systematic literature research developed to identify methodologies, models and scientific planning methods, and valuation of environmental costs in transport, which should serve as theoretical and technical basis for the development of a specific methodological contribution, for sustainable planning, reduction of energy consumption, low pollutant emissions, the urban environment of cities, and for the transport of people. The research carefully selected articles that have demonstrated the potential application of the concepts of sustainable logistics, green logistics and low-carbon logistics in public transport of people. In the second stage, applications directed to transport planning and valuation of environmental costs in transport were identified in these articles, such as pollutant emissions and energy consumption to standardize the concepts, understand them and use them to build a model. It was possible to identify 20 different methods with common objectives of transport sustainability and to build a methodological proposal of sustainable urban transport planning (MPTS-URB), whose contribution is a joint approach of sustainability, economic study, demand and transportation capacity factors, in which all work in harmony. Following this research, it is intended to apply the methodology built - MPTS-URB in the sample environment and to analyze its results.

Andrea Rocchi   and Martucci Olimpia   

Eco-management scheme (EMAS), since its first application, has evolved over time. In its last review, it promotes the best environmental management practices through the development of sectoral reference documents that have to be taken into consideration by the "EMAS-registered organizations" in assessing their environmental performance. Many organizations and companies have a wide margin to improve their environmental performance. With the aim to improve their eco-efficiency and thus its reputation and the sustainability of their business, many companies want to lower their impact on the environment. To help organizations achieve this goal, the CCR identifies, evaluates and documents best environmental management practices (BEMPs) for the different sectors, in collaboration with stakeholders. The results of this work are some sectoral reference documents (SRD) on best practices in environmental management. This activity is part of the European Commission's work to implement the system of EU management and Audit Scheme (EMAS), a voluntary framework for enterprises and other organizations to evaluate, report and improve their environmental performance. In this context, the EU decided in 2009 to promote best environmental management practices through the development of sectoral reference documents.

Ana Paula Gentile   and Francisca Dantas Mendes   

Research related to fashion clothing and interconnected to a cleaner production are increasingly relevant, for the textile chain is largely complex and linked to innumerous factors relating to environmental pollution. Viewing to add improvements in the process or product, the cleaner production seeks the solution by improving some processes that guide these paths. This article aims to study the possibilities of cleaner production in rectilinear knitting for fashion clothing.

A. Marcilla   M. I. BeltrĂĄn   A. GĂłmez-Siurana   I. MartĂ­nez-Castellanos   and D. Berenguer   

A comparative analysis of the mainstream smoke (gas fraction and condensed fraction) obtained from 5 brands of roll-your-own (RYO) tobaccos and the same brand of manufactured cigarettes (MC) commercialized in Spain has been carried out. Both types of tobaccos were smoked using after conditioning under the same conditions and using the same commercial tubes with no vent holes. The average CO yield of the five RYO brands is 27.5 mg/g of smoked tobacco, whereas for MC tobaccos the average is 19.2 mg/g of smoked tobacco. Other harmful compounds present in the gas fraction such as aldehydes are also more abundant in RYO tobaccos, while aromatics, paraffins and olefins are more abundant in MC tobaccos. The results show that in general RYO tobaccos also provide higher yields for the compounds analyzed in the condensed fraction than the MC tobaccos of the same brand. The average of nicotine and tar (in mg/g smoked tobacco) is 2.42 and 19.92, respectively for the five RYO tobaccos and 1.78 and 14.47 for the MC brands.

Clement O. Olando   and Muinde Kimuyu   

Despite the ASAL regions of Kenya having been endowed with rich deposits of resources essential for economic development and sustainable livelihood, the communities living in these regions are in constant conflicts accelerated by searching for rare visible resources. Such conflicts are threatening peaceful coexistence among neighborhoods. This has significantly hampered any development in this region in form of economic, social and even political. Although empirical studies have revealed that resource pooling strategies aid in converting available resources into a rich pool in wealth to the communities having access to these resources, most studies on conflict resolution are not cognizant of the role played by common resource pooling as a strategy for peace building in ASAL regions of Kenya. It is against this background that the present study sought to lock the gap. The main objective of the study was to assess the influence of Community Resource Pooling strategies on conflicts alleviation in Kenya's ASAL regions. The study used descriptive research and purposively sampled 108 farmers of Kavete village of Nzaui sub County of Makueni County. Data was collected from primary sources using a structured questionnaire, which was pretested for validity and reliability before administration. Data was analysed by using both descriptive statistics and thereafter inferential analysis. Based on the results obtained, the study concludes that utilization community resource mobilization and funding strategy, stakeholders' (community) participation in the common resource pooling, establishment of governance and management strategy, and resource management skills and financial competence in a common resource pooling would positively enhance conflict alleviation in Kenya's ASAL regions. The study reveals that there is a significant positive relationship between each of: community resource mobilization and funding strategy, stakeholder participation strategy, governance and management strategy, and resource management skills and financial competence and conflict alleviation in Kenya's ASAL regions. The study recommends that the through communities in Kenya's ASAL region should be encouraged to participate communally on utilizing the resources available (pain sharing-gain sharing), hence a peaceful living owing to abundance of resources. Once a community is enlightened, it is adapted to the new strategy and converts this to normal way of living.

Marcio Pereira Basilio   and Vicente Riccio   

This study represents research that sought to understand the formative process of public security professionals in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from the perspective of the military police officer. Training is the systematic process of orienting the comportment of people toward organisational directives. In the case of public security organisations, these objectives adhere to the objectives of the security policy promoted by the government. The relevance of this study resides in its academic consideration of the model of military police training and its influence on the implementation of public security policy and how it compromises its results. Thus, the research is predominantly qualitative in character. It is also an exploratory study that seeks to understand the police training process for the Military Police of the State of Rio de Janeiro from the perspective of the military police officer, a field in which there is little accumulated and systematic knowledge in Brazil. The research methodology consists of documentary and bibliographic fieldwork. Twenty-four semi-structured interviews with military police officers were conducted and processed using content analysis. The results were classified into five categories. The results reveal that, from the perspective of the interviewees, the training course for soldiers should join theory and practice, undergo investments in infrastructure, include trained teachers, and allow for the broaching of topics related to the complexity of police service, thereby reducing militarism. In this regard, this study opens up new questions: Why this type of training? What is the underlying logic of the security policy in Rio de Janeiro?

Quang Linh Huynh   and Nguyen Van Nguyen   

Organizational structure and organizational culture are factors forming organizational characteristics, which are determinants of knowledge management. Prior research has explored the influence of organizational structure and organizational culture on the management of knowledge; however none of them have evaluated the relative importance of organizational culture and structure to the management of knowledge. The current project attempts to re-investigate the relations of the knowledge management with organizational structure and culture by using the multiple linear regressions. Especially, it applies the analytic hierarchy procedure to rank the comparative significance between organizational structure and organizational culture to the knowledge management. The data for analyses was obtained from 101 publicly listed firms in Vietnamese Stock Exchanges. The findings provide statistically significant evidence on the influences of organizational culture and structure on the knowledge management and the influential levels are different. This research makes some contributions. For theoretical aspect, the findings offer new evidence on the relative importance between organizational structure and organizational culture to the knowledge management that is organizational culture more important than organizational structure in boosting the implementation of knowledge management in business. On practical aspect, the empirical findings will help executives come to better decisions in the management of knowledge conditional on kinds of organizational characteristics.

Marcio Pereira Basilio   Valdecy Pereira   and Helder Gomes Costa   

Public security is a topic with increasing relevance over the years. In this context, the growing demand requires decisions that consider multiple points of view, some of them subjective. This work is based on the assumption that few studies have been conducted in the public security sector employing multiple criteria techniques to support the decision making procedure. In this context, this research had the objective of mapping the application of MCDA methods within the scope of public security. A literature review in the journals of the Scopus and ISI Web of Science databases was carried out in October 2016, accessed through Capes portal, integrating the following themes: public security and multicriteria decision aid. A systematic search was conducted by applying the Webibliomining method. After applying specific keywords and filters 965 records were returned from Scopus and 788 records from the ISI Web of Science. The review of findings summary resulted in a set of 19 articles validated as compliant for inclusion in the revision, where 19 were from Scopus and 6 were shared with the Web of Science base. The analysis of the articles showed that there is no predominant multicriteria method in the context of the search. The recurrent applications refer to the resolution of the policing distribution problem, and classification of crime rate by region. The key contribution of this work is to provide the reader with a map of public safety problems already addressed in the context of MCDAs approaches and to highlight aspects of this problem that have not yet explored in the context of the MCDA.

Aspasia Rigopoulou   

New dynamic city or regional economic environments are characterized by strong relational contexts. These are characterized by the existence of productive supportive local milieus involved in production, organizational and support networks and their intra and inter-network linkages as these relate to a specific industry as well as cooperative strong relations between companies of specific industries, companies and their specific milieu, and their milieu organizations. Research suggests that it is the strength, the cohesion, density, of network relationships, and the embeddedness of all the actors that may be the new predictors of and/or measures of success as these exist in the economically dynamic and innovative environments. This paper, reports on the use of network analysis to operationalize and measure the dynamism of the Pittsburgh economic region as connected with the region's ability to develop, sustain, and expand its software industry. Secondary research, informant interviews, and survey research of 165 software companies and related organizations were used to collect the data and to develop analytical constructs, while the main method of data analysis was network analysis, supplemented with qualitative and descriptive analysis of the local environment. The study documents the existence of a regional milieu that contains many elements and conditions present in dynamic regions. The analysis though showed that the relational context of the elements that constitute the milieu of the software industry were not functionally integrated and that the region lacked the dense and cohesive relational contexts asserted to exist in dynamic environments.

V. Pierre-Georges   F. Bade   and J. MoliniĂ©   

Household and related wastes management become a real problem in modern society. The increasing amount of waste led to use more and more waste incinerators and landfills. In underdeveloped countries, most of the collected garbage is left in uncontrolled open landfills. The open landfill, with flying plastic and biogas emission, creates nuisance for the neighboring environment and population. The main gases produced by waste decomposition are VOCS (Volatile Organic Compounds) and hydrogen sulphide (H₂S). In our study located in Haiti and Guadeloupe, we used hydrogen sulphide as a tracer gas to determine the impact on the environment and human health. Our measurement campaign was both held in Haiti and Guadeloupe. In the controlled garbage dump of Gabarre (Guadeloupe), a portion is completely replanted, and the other hand receives all types of waste. The biogas from the garbage dump Gabarre is channeled into pipes, which will be burned by flare. The uncontrolled garbage dump of Truitier (Haiti) is only controlled by the scavengers. They put the waste in fire, and all the sites are under a smoke plume. To evaluate the emission of gas, we have to identify the center of the landfill and the measurement point rentals. The points have been selected downwind of the landfill taking in account the average local wind direction, in order to observe the gas evolution of the garbage dump. We observed from the performed concentration of H₂S, a same belt behavior for both sites with low concentration soon in the morning, a maximum raised around midday, followed by a decrease during the afternoon. This observed behavior suggest year influence of sun energy on the emission rate. With the maximum concentration, the intensity and the direction of the wind, we calculated the emissivity reported to a central point. We compared their emissivity taking in account the daily amount of waste, the total surface of the landfill and the waste composition ratio. With these first results, we evaluated and compared the concentration of the biogas and their impact on neighboring populations in Port au Prince (Haiti) and Guadeloupe.

Anthony Adjei-Twum   Maimunah Sapri   Sheau Ting Low   and Eugene Okyere-Kwakye   

Ironing is one of the household activities that consume considerable amount of energy with high financial and environmental implications. Even though ironing has adverse impact on energy consumption, studies on ironing, specifically, in the context of students' energy usage are limited. Hence this paper reports on an exploratory study with objective of exploring the factors that underlie ironing behaviour of residential students of higher education institutions. Data for the study were obtained through focus group technique and analysed using qualitative content analysis in MAXQDA 12 qualitative analysis software. The result of the study revealed that majority of the students in residential facilities do not practice bulk ironing which was attributed to attitude; perceived behavioural control; social factors; physical factors such as availability of space for hanging ironed clothes; availability of power; and background of the individual students. Our findings could help managers of institutions to formulate appropriate strategies and policy framework to address students' excessive energy consumption through ironing in their residential facilities. Practical implications of the study are discussed.

Sandra Mueller   and Manuel Sand   

Outdoor instructors require a set of competences enabling them to meet the demands of different training groups. Yet, it is not evident what competences are of particular significance and what roles the aspects communication and leadership play. Current research is often based on the subjective experiences of the corresponding researchers. Only very few contributions are based on empirical data such as [1-3]. Some researches specifically address the aspects leadership and communication [4-7], yet up to now a competence profile has not been developed. A systematic data-based analysis regarding a comprehensive competence model for outdoor instructors is lacking. This qualitative pilot study seeks to gain insights regarding important competencies of outdoor instructors with a focus on leadership and communication. Ten selected outdoor instructors were interviewed using qualitative methods. Results show that personal skills are more important than specialist knowledge. Trainers should be authentic, interacting with groups and aware of customer needs. Communication skills are important, as well as humour and sympathy and understanding in terms of communication. With a focus on leadership optimism, decision-making ability and judgement are essential skills. No consistent competence pattern could be determined, but a set of valuable research questions for future studies could be defined.

Karen M. Fernandez   and Kumutinee Worasuwan   

The Thai economy is on the rise and the labor market is getting more competitive, partly because of the government's policy of raising minimum wage, according to a recent survey. In many ways the Philippines has achieved better progress than other developing countries. It has become industrialized nation integrated in the world economy and has somewhat moved away from agriculture. But somehow the labor turnover issues in both countries have been increasing especially in the hospitality industry. One of the most critical issue facing organizations today is how to retain the employees they want to keep. Employees retaining is the most imperative target for the organization because hiring of qualified candidate is essential for organization but their retention is more important than hiring, because a huge amount is spending on the orientation and training of the potential employees. Employee retention in the hospitality industry is a persistent problem which management can reduce by applying effective managerial and leadership practices as a means of generating employee satisfaction. Compare with other sectors where positions are mostly full-time, specialized and operate during traditional business hours, the hospitality workforce is labor intensive, and characterized by high levels of casualization diverse skill requirement from unskilled to highly specialized employees, customer contact oriented, and twenty-four hour seven days per week operation are some of the causes of high turnover. Worldwide researchers have suggested that employee turnover is among the highest in hospitality industry. When employees leave, valuable knowledge is lost and even guests may follow the departing employee. Hoteliers who have actively find ways to retain employees gain a sustainable competitive advantage. The study compares the employee retention information from the managers of selected hotels in two Southeast Asian countries, Thailand and Philippines. An empirical research is conducted to analyze and assess the best leadership practices used by hotel managers on retaining their employees. This study will lead in formulating strategies that will also contribute to the existing body of knowledge of the leadership and management practices in hotel employee retention.

Singh Sarbjit   

This paper attempts to find out whether organizations should follow a push strategy or pull strategy and how their supply chain works. Depending upon the organization, it can be a mix of both the strategies. This study works on factors which provides best decision fit for organizations and their business. It also discusses the advantages and disadvantages both the strategies and how the life cycle of the product helps in determining which strategy to be used. The case of dealing with perishable goods has been considered. This study also proposes about the inventory levels for each strategy.

Anish M. Kalliguddi   and Aera K. Leboulluec   

Flight delay has been one of the major issues in the airline industry. A study by Frankfurt-based consulting company 'Aviation Experts', presented that costs of $25 billion were incurred in 2014 due to flight delays worldwide. Domestic flight delays have an indirect negative impact on the US economy, reducing the US gross domestic product (GDP) by $4 billion [1]. This project investigates the significant factors responsible for flight delays in the year 2016. The data set extracted from Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) [2] containing one million instances each having 8 attributes is used for the analysis. We describe a predictive modeling engine using machine learning techniques and statistical models to identify delays in advance. The data set is cleaned and imputed and techniques such as decision trees, random forest and multiple linear regressions are used. We attempt to put forth a solution to the delay losses incurred by the airline industry by identifying the critical parameters responsible for flight delay. Not only airlines incur a huge amount of cost per year, airport authorities and its operations are also affected adversely. This leads to inconvenience to the travelers. Predictive modeling developed in this study can lead to better management decisions allowing for effective flight scheduling. In addition, the highlighted significant factors can give an insight into the root cause of aircraft delays.

Oyekunle Oyelakin   and Usman Mamman Kandi   

Given the economic realities in Nigeria, the country must constantly create new jobs, and diversify the industrial and commercial sector to take advantage of human and natural resources through entrepreneurship development. The present research aims to identify the role of government policies on the relationship between innovations, technology and entrepreneurship development in Nigeria. Questionnaire was distributed to Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs) in Osun State. Structural Equation Model was used to analyze data using Partial Least Square Method (PLS 3). The results based on findings shows that a positive significant effect was found between government support, innovation and technology on entrepreneurship development. Government policies were found to have fully moderate the relationship between innovation, technology and entrepreneurship development. Government polices was found to be the most explanatory variable of the study having the highest effect on the entrepreneurship development. Therefore, the study recommends that government should enact policies that will encourage and promote the use of technology and support innovative ideas to bring economic growth through entrepreneurship development.

Mahmoud Y. M. Kaskeen   

Purpose: The relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR) and corporate financial performance has been subject to extensive empirical enquiry. Yet the body of evidence that has accumulated about the nature of the relationship is equivocal. Purpose of this research is to explore the impact of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) on Firm Performance while controlling the impact of Firm Specific variables for Pakistani Manufacturing Sector. Methodology: We measure CSR by taking three sub variables, whereas CP measurement approaches include accounting-based measures, market-based measures and combined measures. We used panel least square method by using fixed effect model, we took 56 cross sections (Companies listed on KSE) with six years of time series, and thus we gathered or estimated on 336 firm year observational data. Results: we performed Housman and test statistics favored for fixed effect model for equations. Multiple regression results reveals that Donations has strong negative effects on accounting based market returns, while coefficient is not statistically significant from zero for Earning per share, while workers profit participation fund and Workers welfare funds has strong significant impact on financial performance in term of accounting, equity and market base. However Earning before earning and tax and firm growth (our control variables) coefficients has shown strong positive impact on financial performance, while firm cash availability has negative impact on financial performance for sample under study. After control long firm specific variables we found a strong significant impact of CSR on FP for Pakistani manufacturing sector. Practical Implications: The results of said research would help corporate executives and financial managers for execution of owners' wealth goal (Financial Profitability) by implementing proper CSR practices in manufacturing sector companies.

Catalina Garca   and Jose Maria Perez Sanchez  

The distribution for the adjustment of financial returns must be capable not only to successfully completing the adjustment stage, but must also recover the stochastic characteristics of the sample data, including the bounded domain. This assumption is even more logical in the Chinese stock market where there is a price restriction in the daily movement among other special characteristics. This paper analyzes if the price restriction affects to the distribution of extreme returns by using the Peak Over Threshold (POT) method to model the extreme behavior for the daily Shanghai Stock Exchange (SSE) Composite Index applying the Generalized Pareto distribution (GPD). The risk measures calculated allow concluding that the restriction of prices leads to a lesser risk.

Workneh Alemnew Alula   

The proportion of teenagers who drink alcoholic beverages regularly is increasing and many young people start drinking from a very young age in Ethiopia. There are compelling evidences about the negative impact of drinking by young people not only on their health, but it is also known to be a major contributory factor for much of the crime and anti-social behavior carried out by young people. So, reducing the impact of alcohol marketing on young people is not only a public health goal but also a public law goal since underage drinking is a significant contributor to youth alcohol-related crimes, suicide and problems associated with school and family. Young people drink earlier more often and more frequently when exposed to alcohol marketing. There is known to be a link between alcoholic beverages advertising and people's alcohol consumption, particularly those under the age of 18. This study argues that any advertisement of liquor shall not concentrate on minors or use a minor as an advertisement actor so as to protect minors from negative impacts of alcohol consumption. Besides the large volume of alcohol advertising practices encountered in Ethiopia, the content of the advertisements stand out and are part of a very aggressive marketing strategy which might be interpreted as unethical. Moreover, there is no law that prescribes liability against alcohol manufacturers and sellers which serve alcohol to a boy or a girl under 18 years old in Ethiopia. Regarding methodology, this study uses qualitative data by assessing the laws and policies of the country Vis-Ă -vis international experiences. It, therefore, focuses on the following research questions: (1) do alcoholic beverages manufacturing companies transmit ethical and legal advertisements in accordance with the Ethiopian Advertisement Proclamation No.759/2012? (2) do advertisements of alcoholic beverages concentrate on minors? (3) is there a need of laws that prescribe liability against alcohol manufacturers and sellers which serve alcohol to a youngster who is under 18 years old?; and finally is there a need of vibrant laws to reduce the impact of alcohol marketing on youth? This study recommends that there should be regulatory legal frameworks on underage alcohol drinking in Ethiopia. Hence, the alcohol marketing regulatory framework should be stringent and established by law in Ethiopia.

Chih Hsiung Chang   Heidi H. Chang   and Jui-Chu Tien   

Information asymmetry has been a commonly existed phenomenon in banking system. This paper adopted consumer finance data from both government-owned and private- owned banks in Taiwan, variables such as numbers of effective cards, percentages of overdue loans, and revolving interest rate are used to investigate if information asymmetry phenomenon existed in Taiwan's credit card market. During the research period, Taiwan had suffered from severe crisis of credit card debt, financial supervisory organization interfered into the credit card market passively, hoping to improve the information asymmetry phenomenon of the credit card market. However, the research results show that not only information asymmetry phenomenon has not disappeared from Taiwan's credit card market, but worsen the adverse selection phenomenon and promoted moral hazard in certain degree.

B.D.C. Rathenam   and N.L. Dabup   

Construction projects in the public sector are often affected by major challenges with regards to project ownership by stakeholders particularly with the co-operation of local communities. Local community participation is a requirement for various development initiatives in South Africa. Various government policies and regulations exist, to support the free and fair participation of small and medium scale enterprises within the built environment, particularly with public sector projects. This research study seeks to investigate the influence of local communities on public sector construction projects and will focus on the impact of the local community involved in the construction of the Hammanskraal Pedestrian Bridge over the R101 in Hammanskraal, Pretoria. The sample population will consist of the main contractor, the professional team involved in the project and the municipality officials overseeing the project. This research will also focus on the engagement of the professional engineer and project managers with the project steering community.

Ronilyn M. Telan   and Mary Ann F. Quioc   

This study focused on the development of a decision-support system to forecast the inventory needs of the City Schools Division of Mabalacat. Each Property Custodian, called District Property Custodian for primary and Secondary School Supply Officer for secondary, is responsible for determining the needs and excess items of schools within their jurisdiction. Their tasks involve itemization of each school's physical properties to be able to forward proper requests for additional needs to division office. Such task requires time to be finished as the bulk of data needed to be processed and analyzed are increasing annually. Hence, delays had been experienced from requests to the delivery of the requested items. The Property Custodians should be able to plan the demand or identify the number of needed equipment and items of each school within their jurisdictions before the request will be delivered. The said manual procedures in the inventory had been automated in the new system. In order to forecast the necessary number of items for each school in the division office, the researchers applied Moving Average and Exponential Smoothing. The data resulted in the said forecast had been used to request items with neither minimal excess nor insufficiency that results in wastage.

Autram Jacobs   and Lebogang Kamohi   

Recent studies on the success rates of modern day projects have shown that the project management fraternity needs to go beyond merely achieving the current levels of excellence and become more relevant to the needs of the modern business environment. These modern, dynamic environments are characterised by high levels of pressure to perform, as well as rapid changes caused by advances in technology such as the internet. Factors such as globalisation and recessions are also playing a role in the increasingly intense cost-cutting contemporary organisation. Hence, the current project manager effectiveness factors previously researched like methodology, people-skills and leadership have brought project practice only so far and will not be all-encompassing in future. These refer to how the project manager relates externally during project practise, in terms of how the project manager relates to the project itself, the resources and stakeholders; but what of the project manager's own, internal self-assessment of his or her abilities in particular projects? How does the project manager handle him or herself, intrinsically and does this have an impact on the project manager's effectiveness in high-pressure contemporary business environments? If so, the awareness of this can create an improved project manager better equipped to handle him or herself in the new era. By means of meta-ethnography and qualitative research, it was found that a concept called self-efficacy is extremely relevant to project management in this regard, and enhances several personal attributes required for the project manager to thrive in these modern environments. The term 'self-efficacy' is defined as a person's own judgment of his or her capabilities to organise and execute the courses of action required to attain predetermined goals - hence the relevance to project managers. It is not concerned with the skills one has, but rather with the estimation of what one can attain with the skills one possesses. The researcher found that project managers who can manage their self-assessment with regards to their projects will be more effective in these turbulent times. The researcher's work also showed self-efficacy having a significant improvement in 5 specific personal competencies sorely needed in contemporary organisations - Adaptability/flexibility, Ability to handle ambiguity, Persistence/perseverance, Emotional Intelligence and Resilience. Ultimately, the paper shows these 5 competencies being important in contemporary environments and that self-efficacy significantly improves or enhances these for project managers in modern companies. In so doing, the researcher gives a clear indication of the effect of self-efficacy improvement on the effectiveness of project managers in contemporary organisations.

Gil Greenstein   

In the global environment decision makers should considers several aspects. Some of them have contradicted influence, and some aspects are not comparable to others. It leads decision-makers to limited ability of judgment between several aspects. Moreover, in a vibrant world, where technological changes occur in small intervals over time, the considerations of decision makers are changing frequently and dramatically. Thus, decision makers cannot adjust their decision mechanism instantly. This leads us to the need to better understand human decision process. This research presents a new extension of the Information Structure model, which is built using a normative approach in order to understand the mechanisms of multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) processes. A consequent analysis explains decision-making behavior under the assumptions of bounded rationality. The analysis deals with decision situations, in which it is assumed that a decision-maker cannot formulate a joint utility function constituted from different criteria, which are completely or partially inestimable (intangible). Moreover, the model demonstrates problematic issues of MCDM processes; for example, when the improvement of a service paradoxically leads to a decline in a firm's market share. The model enables implementation of the general informativeness ratio between information structures to such environments. The model is based on the assumption of Bounded-Rationality, that a decision process takes several criteria into account, and handles with a decision-maker that cannot formulate a joint utility function constituted from different criteria. The results of the analysis after applying the model suggest that an optimal solution cannot be obtained; thus, a different approach is proposed – that of optimization subject to rational satisfaction. This approach can be implemented, for example in the design stage of decision support systems (DSS). The method may be implemented for decision situations, in which intangible decision criteria are taken into consideration.

Anura Amarasena   

This paper provides a critical review of existing theories on International Business (IB) in order to establish current theoretical direction as the paper argues whether traditional theories of international business (IB) can help explain e-commerce. In order to achieve this objective, the basics of international business and current trends in the international business environment affecting firm internationalisation are addressed. Existing literature is examined in light of the development of the information and communication technologies (ICTs) particularly the Internet and e-commerce. The analysis provides explanations to the question of what extent can the Internet related IB activities be accommodated within the current theories of IB.

Michiko Miyamoto   

This study examines attitudes and feelings of managers and professionals of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) project management teams in order to complete the assignment. Especially, relationships between factors, such as communication, internal work motivation, general satisfaction, internal work motivation and job involvement for both groups are analyzed by using a framework and empirical analyses for the survey data from 1,678 managers and professionals working in a collaborative environment for Japanese software houses. The results of the research model using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) show that internal work motivation, and job involvement are highly related to their satisfaction for both groups. However, each group feels differently on a relationship between communication and internal work motivation. The manager regards communications are highly related to internal motivation, while professionals do not feel the same way.

Arisara Seyanont   

The purpose of this study was to investigate travel motivations of European senior tourists to Thailand by adopting the theory of push and pull motivations as a conceptual framework. The objectives of this study were to investigate travel motivation and intention to revisit of European senior tourists to Thailand. Using factor analysis, this study identified six push factors and six pull factors. From the analysis, the relationships between push and pull factors had the highest correlation were "Rest & Relaxation" and "Shopping & Travel Distance". The results of regression analysis indicated three push factors: "(1) Novelty/Knowledge Seeking", "(2) Ego-Enhancement", and "(5) Socialization" and three pull factors: "(1) Cultural & Historical Attractions", "(5) Leisure Activities & Affordable", and "(6) Relaxation Activities" were found to significant impact to the intention to revisit of European senior tourists to Thailand.

Mohsen Mohammadi Asl   

Risk assessment, the proactive and systematic assessment of risks, is a standard element of most offshore and maritime companies' safety management systems. Risk assessment is a powerful and flexible tool to identify and control potential undesirable events that can have safety, environmental, quality, or financial repercussions. The focus of these Guidance Notes (prolusion) is risk assessment applied to work tasks, commonly referred to as job safety analysis for human and equipment. This paper will discuss safety of seaman and equipment (JSAHA) before the start of any job. In this regard all safety and errors of any task will be checked and investigated. Moreover, the manner in which the equipment Functions is studied the instruction for the preparation of the full manuscript is detailed in this template file. The template is intended as a tool to assist you in the layout of your manuscript. It is encouraged that this template can be used for submission of manuscripts. Use of the template will save time during production and expedite publication.

Ibush Luzha   and Anni Dasho Sharko   

General Directorate for Accreditation of Kosovo (DAK) is the only National Accreditation Body in the Republic of Kosovo, based on Law No. 05 / L-117 approved in the Kosovo Assembly on 20.12.2016 and published in the Official Newspaper of the Republic of Kosovo, No. 2/12 January 2017, in accordance with international standards, assesses technical competences of the Conformity Assessment Bodies (CAB)s that deals with activities such as: testing, calibration, certification and inspection both in public and private sector. Till now application for accreditation process and all other procedures for accreditation of CABs are carried out manually, and all the documents of the application and the receipt of the certificate of accreditation are conducted in the offices of DAK manually not using an appropriate Management Information System, DAK-MIS System. Through DAK Management Information System (DAK-MIS), customers will get and proceed all needed documents online, starting from: Application for accreditation, Application review, Cost estimates and Accreditation contract, Appointment of Lead Assessor, Preliminary visit, Appointment of assessment team, Document and records review, Assessment, Reporting, Follow up assessment, Decision, Accreditation surveillance, Renewal of accreditation, Extending accreditation, Extraordinary visits, Suspending, withdrawing or reducing the accreditation through this database and getting finally the official document of accreditation. The only condition for the customers is to have internet access, following the accreditation procedure online on the new system. DAK-MIS System will facilitate the work of DAK and CABs informing through this paper the CAB's and other Interested Parties about DAK- MIS database.

Elvir Čizmić   and Amra ČauĆĄević   

The aim of the research is to determine how the Sarajevo Film Festival affects the image of the city of Sarajevo and the satisfaction of tourists at tourist destination city of Sarajevo, as well as to establish the relationship between the Sarajevo Film Festival and tourist perception of Sarajevo. The study used a quantitative approach to research, which included data collection through surveys (Face to Face) of respondents, with the use of a questionnaire, specifically created for this study. The population covered by this research are foreign tourists (people who are not citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina), who visited Sarajevo in the period of the Sarajevo Film Festival (15-23. August 2014), as well as in the period of one month before and after it was held (July and September 2014).

Eranda Janku   Ledio Allkja   and Besnik Aliaj   

For many years, one of the biggest challenges of Albania has been the consideration of urban planning as a management tool for controlling the development, in order to achieve territorial, social and economic cohesions. The transition from a centrally planned economy, where everything was controlled by the government, towards decentralization and market economy caused many consequences, among which uncontrolled and fragmented urban development, loss of agricultural land due to urbanization, concentration of population and dense urbanization in the major cities, abandonment of western lowland and eastern parts of the country etc. Thus, Albania 2030 Manifesto tried to build against the vacuum that is created by the lack of tradition on national spatial development policies. It aimed to offer a method of spatial planning and guidance for the government in drafting the national spatial plan. The method followed for achieving such, was by using case studies, as well as an action research method involving several focus groups and discussion platforms, in order to create a model for spatial planning, which goes beyond the traditional linear model of producing a controlled future, and which allows for flexibility, complexity and change to occur within the system. The research work aimed at initiating a change also in the "mind-frame" of creating a process, which is open and allows for the incorporation of change due to greater dynamic global forces, as well as self-organizing autonomous local actions to be inspired. Albania 2030 Manifesto aimed at creating a method, which allows for multi-actors, levels and factors to be incorporated in the process, as well as to offer guidance on the cartographic language, that can be used to represent the spatial vision.

DĆŸoljić Jovana   and Stevović Svetlana   

Economic and ecological aspects of hydrogen use and analyzes of its characteristics for possible use as an alternative, renewable resource are presented in this work together with methods of its production, compression and transport, including experimental methodology of nanocapillaries. Due to the high price of its production technology, use of compressed hydrogen is limited nowadays. Numerous researches identify the most efficient ways of hydrogen production and storage that can be economically highly competitive at market. New advanced technologies of hydrogen production, together with extent of the photo-biological, photo-electrical and thermo-chemical use, could be used but, for now, are not neither acceptable nor have economic benefits. At the same time, innovation of classical methods of hydrogen storage highlight that most probably metal hydrides, respectively the newest technology of carbonate nanocapillaries and glassy microspheres, could be used. As one of the major challenges was identified establishment of hydrogen in the transport field, as a replacement for a fuel in the internal combustion engines, respectively as the fuel for driven fuel cells. Price of hydrogen limits the wider use of the fuel cell technology even thought is developed enough to be introduced in the commercial vehicles.

Yan-Yi Chang   Hsiang-Kai (Dennis) Dong   Chung-Yuang Jan   and Rong-Yang Huang   

A paradigm shift from a centralized authority system to a polycentric authority network has occurred in multiple areas of Drug Prevention due to the greater prevalence of collaborative governance. Drug policy is an example of a particularly contentious and polarized area in which governability is being critically examined. The Narcotics Hazard Prevention Act illustrates our government's strong tendency to enhance its governability. Sound governance of drug control usually involves a well design safety net and a wide range of capable actors and stakeholders that include policemen, public servants, practitioners, and other. Among these actors, the roles of policemen have been changed due to the fragmentation of authority and the reframing of the drug control structure. In this study, focus group and in-depth interviews will be applied to discuss the potential problems and issues, followed by two survey researches implemented for members of the Drug Abuse Prevention Center and Policemen of Precincts. From the perspective of Polycentricity and Collaborative Governance, the study found it plays more important role for the members of the Drug Abuse Prevention Center and Policemen of Precincts due to the inadequacy of the Narcotics Hazard Prevention Act.

Julita Haber   and Nina Sarkar   

In post-secondary management education, students receive course grades that often include points for extra credit assignments (ECAs). Although ECAs abound on college campuses we found that the literature lacks specific guidelines for faculty on how to use ECAs effectively to facilitate students' learning. To address this gap, the study examines the relationship between students' effort needed to complete an assignment and the number of extra credit and points student expect to get in return. Based on data collected from a sample of 102 college students, we calculated acceptable point ranges for faculty to use for four commonly found ECA types in management education. We employed a technique used in research pricing referred to as Van Westendorp's price sensitivity analysis and modified it to the extra credit setting. Further, our results indicate that there is a non-linear relationship between effort and expected credit points, and this effect is varied by difficulty of course. We conclude with key observations and suggestions for management education and future research.

Mfanasibili Ngwenya   

The sustainability of South African telecommunications companies is under threat. Such threats are as a result new regulations that allowed influx of new entrant in the form of ISPs (Internet Service Providers) and the emergent of over-the-top (OTT) applications in recent years. This research seeks to understand the factors that influence a sustained competitive advantage despite all the challenges in the telecommunications industry in South Africa. The research explained the relationship that exist between service quality and sustained competitive advantage as well as the relationship that exist between intellectual capital and sustained competitive advantage. The study looked at the influence from both an internal perspective and external perspective. The internal perspective analysed the three constructs that make up intellectual capital namely; human capital, structural capital and relational capital. The external perspective used the SERVQUAL model to analyse how customers perceive services they expect to get from the telco providers and how they perceive the services after an encounter with the telco provider. The SERVQUAL model looks at five constructs of service quality namely; tangibility, reliability, responsiveness, assurance and empathy. The results of the study show that in the telco industry, relational capital is the most important dimension of intellectual capital followed by human capital, with structural capital coming up last. On the service quality variable, the research shows that customers see assurance as the most important dimension of service quality. With this in mind, the telco companies need to focus on their relational capital and human capital which includes customers and suppliers. They also need to focus on the assurance and responsiveness part of service quality. These variables will then influence future behaviour of customers (external view) as well allow employees to forge relationships that are long lasting and develop skills continuously (internal view). These dimensions are critical for the telco providers to achieve a sustained competitive advantage.

Rui Xiong   and WenLi Li   

The aim of this research is to discuss the wine consumption behavior of college students in the south of China, to seek possible explanation for the college students' behaviors and finally, to identify which factors may attribute their willingness to purchase and make strategic suggestions or plans for the wine industry. Self-administered electronic questionnaires were completed by 159 college students in Shenzhen, China in 2016. Frequencies, cross-tabulation, Chi-square and One-way Anova and correlation analysis were used in the study. Research results indicate the majority of respondents have a basic command of wine knowledge. The college students have a desire to know wines and the most effective way is through visitation. Generally, they drink and purchase wine infrequently. They would be more likely to purchase wine from the supermarkets, wineries and internet, which aims mainly for celebrations and socializations. Respondents prefer to sweet white wines, rose wines and sparkling wines, in comparison to dry wines, which are fresh and aromatic. Significant differences exist between the genders and the type of wine, while no significant differences between the grape varieties of wine and genders. Strong correlations were found between consumer wine knowledge and frequency. This paper contributes a basic study on college student's wine subjective knowledge and wine drinking behavior in the south of China, which assists the wineries and wine markets to make strategies for market segmentation. It is also helpful for wine markets to understand and make proper market strategies for the emerging wine consumers.

Dinesh N. Iyer   Barton M. Sharp   and Thomas H. Brush   

This study is an effort towards understanding the role of organizational systems in innovation performance. We consider two distinct perspectives of organizational systems in terms of knowledge creation and innovation performance. One perspective considers organizational systems as serving to recombine existing knowledge to create new knowledge and thus value, while the other views organizational systems as a tool for implementing knowledge created by individual members in a value-adding way. The study develops a model in which organizational systems mediate the relationship between knowledge and organizational innovation performance in order to better understand how organizations themselves, as distinct from the individuals which make up the organization, contribute to innovation. The study applies Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to plant level data to explore the importance of organizational systems on knowledge transfer and performance. The findings suggest that organizational systems mediate the relationship between knowledge transfer and innovation performance, supporting the idea of the organization as a central actor in knowledge creation. Also, internal knowledge sources were found to contribute more to the knowledge transfer within the firm when compared to external knowledge sources.

Denis Lavigne   

The OSeMOSYS project proposes an open-access energy modeling tool and its relative simplicity makes it appealing for academic research and governmental organizations to study the impacts of policy decisions on an energy system in the context of possible severe greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions constraints. In real life such limitations on emissions levels may result in a reduction of some end-use demands (for example for the transportation of passengers-kilometers by cars). The current OSeMOSYS model does not allow this type of behaviour and all end-use demands must be completely satisfied. This paper presents how an elasticity of demand capability can be embedded in an OSeMOSYS analysis in order to allow the possibility to endogenously reduce some end-use demands to satisfy GHG emissions objectives.

Yeh Yu-Mei   Li Feng-Chia   and Lin Hung-Yuan   

With the globalization of markets, to remain competitive, companies require not only new product ideas and superior approaches for responding to customer needs but also improved processes or environments in the workplace. Firms cannot rely on a single worker's creativity to implement innovation successfully but must encourage collective creativity, which focuses on collaboration and joint success. This study focused on attaining a more profound understanding of creativity theory as developed from the individual to team levels and on the team process of how members contribute by combing relevant inputs by using an optimal method for yielding a creative team response. Following the model of team creativity of Dzindolet and Paulus, we identified crucial team member variables and analyzed the effects of these variables on interactions among cognitive, social, and motivational processes and on the enhancement of team creativity. Task proficiency, collectivistic value orientation, and team vitality were determined to be three team member variables crucial for team creativity. The structural equation modeling (SEM) analyses were also used to show that team vitality mediates the positive relationships among task proficiency, collectivistic value orientation, and team creativity. In study, we also discuss the implications of these results for teaching research and practice.

Jan Eckert   

In this paper, two hypotheses introduce into the question whether incompleteness as an approach to designing artefacts might lead to a better involvement of the artefact's future users and act as a trigger for future innovation. The first hypothesis introduces the concept of Handlungsspielraum which focuses the definition and incompleteness of an artefact in its context. The second picks up Nassim Nicholas Taleb's concept of Antifragility, which embraces uncertainty as an integral part of any (innovation) process. The two hypotheses are illustrated by the comparison of two motorcycle manufacturers, both providing their products with a different attitude towards openness. As a conclusion, the concept of the Agile artefact is introduced. The Agile Artefact fosters an artefact's continuous mutation and improvement by embracing both hypotheses: incompleteness as trigger for innovation and the Antifragile as strategy to embrace the uncertain and overcome crises.

Sudaryono   Untung Rahardja   and Ahmad Roihan   

In the era of modern learning, e-Learning system utilized the school as a media institution of learning that can control the effectiveness of student learning. Some of your existing online learning system is not yet able to support teaching and learning activities based on student (student oriented). This research aims to harness and develop a system that is running by adding the concept of Business Intelligence in order to measure interest and activity of students in learning system application wear online. The methods used in this research are with the method of OLAP by utilizing data mart and user needs analysis. Design of business intelligence using user interface components namely the dashboard so that the information displayed in real time and accurate. The next of this research will be known how much interest and the liveliness of the students in the following learning interactively and communicative.

Vu-Hoang Le   

The trend of globalization and international integration poses many challenges for tertiary education in Vietnam. Quality education is a matter of social concern and the most competitive in the training occurs with increasing drastic levels. On that basis, a number of Universities are trying to improve the quality of education and training in Vietnam. Currently, many Universities in Vietnam select the method of Quality Management according to QMS ISO 9001: 2008, a registration accreditation under the accreditation standards of Education & Training. Therefore, the quality management according to QMS ISO 9001: 2008 registration and accreditation has nothing alike and different. Regulatory role of Universities leadership and involvement of all leaders, teachers, and staff in quality assurance within the University are shown how to meet the needs of customers increasingly better than.

Intelmann Michael   and Wellner Kai-Uwe   

The purpose of this paper is to indicate obvious aspects with regard to differences in national and organisational cultures in co-operations between two international companies and to give suggestions how to resolve them. Based on a series of qualitative and quantitative interviews, the following research presents an acquisition from a Bavarian, countryside medium-sized German automation company (PLC company with roughly EUR 30 million Sales and 250 employees) by an international Japanese machinery building corporation (acting in same field of business with a stronger focus on the machinery building, stock listed co-operation with roughly EUR 3 billion sales and 14.000 employees). The article outlines cultural and management integration strategies to ensure successful collaboration for the future to secure the strength of the German medium-sized company. The findings show that the personal readiness to understand, adapt and tolerate the cultural differences helps to facilitate negotiations and though, the process of cultural integration is a soft topic and takes several years, it can and should be planned systematically and precisely integrated by the top management to achieve effective change for the realisation of synergies. The elaborated suggestions are helpful for managers in general, because the often underestimated topic of cultural integration, is at least as important for the valuable outcome of the co-operation as strategic and organisational changes.

Tzu-Wei Su   Jyh-Huei Kuo   Yu-Ha Cheung   Cheng-Ze Hung   Shih-Hao Lu   and Jen-Wei Cheng   

This study examined the potential moderating roles of career officer's institutional intention and occupational intention on the relationship between structural/content career plateaus and job involvement in Taiwanese career military officers. Empirical data were collected from 338 career officers who received full-time training at the National Defense University in Taiwan. The results showed that the perception of structural/content career plateaus were both negatively related to job involvement. Furthermore, the results found the supports of the moderating role of institutional intention in the relationship between perceived structural/content career plateaus and job involvement, and the moderating role of occupational intention in the relationship between perceived structural career plateau and job involvement. Practical management and research implications are discussed, and future research directions suggested.

Krishnan Gopalakrishnan   Ajith Prabhu   Sunil Jadhav   Vivek Jain   and Priyanka Katiyar   

Our organization processes loan applications and disburses loans to the customers. Our constant endeavor is to process the file in the least turnaround time. The ability to decide on case faster depends highly on the preceding processes of checking of files for completeness, data entry in to the core system, analysis of bank statements, computation of eligibility and getting internal or external verification done. The project is aimed at improving the turnaround time for pre-approval processing of files. A benchmarking study was carried with the process of traffic management where similar problems exist by visiting the Gemba. We observed various measures taken to control traffic at peak hours like use of (1) Freeway / Ring roads: In most cities ring road is constructed to allow for traffic which bypasses congested areas. We implemented a centralized CPA (Credit processing agent) shop for mandatory data entry. This enabled us to balance different volumes at our 40 odd branches. (2) Junction Control: In some cities we identified areas where roads were unidirectional during certain times of the day and would go in the opposite direction at other times based of traffic. In our organization context we initiated training programs to improve the competency of branch teams to handle multiple process/ products. (3) Making information available: Congestion information helps in diverting vehicular movement on alternate routes. In our company, specific information / status pertaining to each file was not available on a real time basis. This information was stored manually and would take a lot of time and effort to collate. Reports were formed which collate information and case specific requirements are shared with all the stakeholders proactively. To ensure that this effort is sustained we formed a Credit Operations Team with a defined organization structure. PDCA (Plan Do Check Act) approach was followed in executing the project; pilot studies were conducted at Mumbai to check effectiveness of the model, post validation the changes were replicated across branches. The project has resulted in 17% improvement in cases meeting turnaround time for processing along with 33% improvement in productivity as compared to the last Financial Year.

Maely Barreto de Sousa   and Fatima Regina Ney Matos   

The engineering work has peculiarities that still stand as barriers to women's role in the workspace. Like any type of work, it also generates suffering, resulting in individual defense strategies. The aim of this paper was to understand the defensive strategies applied by female engineers in the states of Bahia and CearĂĄ against the suffering of work. The research is characterized as qualitative and data were treated with content analysis. As a result it was identified a new defense strategy category developed by female engineers, in addition to the ones pointed by the literature.

Vladimir Kozar   and Vesna Bilbija   

The topic of this paper is a review of the changes that have affected the world of work, deviations that have occurred due to these changes and also the need to invest more effort in creating and maintaining a healthy working environment. In modern business operating conditions, the expectation of a guaranteed employment has disappeared and it has been replaced with a requirement for an employee to prove himself/herself again and again on the competitive and demanding market. The fear of losing their jobs, quite demanding tasks that also carry greater personal responsibility, the pressures due to which competition among employees is created, which, if not channelled, has no driving power but causes a distrust among colleagues and personal insecurity - are a sure way to mobbing and discrimination. In the context of European integrations, there has been great progress in improving the legal and institutional framework for fight against discrimination in the Republic of Serbia. The dynamics of passing the anti-discrimination laws has an upward trajectory, indicating that the harmonization of national normative framework in the field of protection against various forms of discrimination gained its due attention. The prohibition of discrimination and the prevention of abuse at work are subject to the regulation of the parent Labour Law and a special Law on Prevention of the Abuse at Work. With the formation of the normative framework, prevention has an important factor in the suppression of mobbing and discrimination, as well as creation of social conditions conducive to the establishment of the system of values in which equality and mutual tolerance represent values that society consciously accepts and where differences among people are appreciated and understood as its wealth and potential for development.

Kaoru Tone   

Slacks-based measure (SBM) (Tone [1]), Pastor et al. [2]) has been widely utilized as a representative non-radial DEA model. However, this model, called SBM-Min here, evaluates the efficiency of an inefficient DMU referring to the furthest frontier point within a range. In contrast, the SBM-Max model looks for the nearest frontier point and hence its score is generally greater than the SBM-Min score. The Super-SBM model (Tone [3]) evaluates the efficiency of an efficient DMU referring to the nearest point on the frontier except itself. We can foresee a close connection between SBM-Max and Super-SBM models, because the motivations behind the two models are same. In this paper we demonstrate this consistency using a real dataset.

Stefanovska-Petkovska, M.   Bojazdiev, M.   Handjiski, V. K.   and Trajkovska, V.   

The review of the academic literature reveals that job motivation is driven by the level of job satisfaction of employees. Hence, organizations that recognize the importance of satisfied employees are more likely to create flexible, loyal and creative workforce. This study is used to reexamine Frederick Herzberg's two-factor theory and its application in understanding what motivates manual workers in the construction industry. The data had been collected on 307 construction workers in Macedonia. The results indicated that personal characteristics did not influence job satisfaction among construction workers. However a significant influence of work environment characteristics on job satisfaction was found. Additionally, the results indicated that that the employees were not fully satisfied with the company's Opportunities for advancement. On the other hand, the motivation factors that lead to employees' satisfaction were the Responsibility factor, related to the available resources, tools, and physical environment, Good feelings about the organization, and Clarity of Mission. More relevant Hygiene factors to lead towards dissatisfaction were the Effectiveness of the supervisors, and Good relationship with co-workers.

J. Slomp   

In this paper we present a sociotechnical evaluation of three new, and alternative shop floor control systems used in high-variety/low-volume part manufacturing. The three alternative systems concerns the application of (i) POLCA, a card-based system to connect semi-autonomous cells, (ii) LPC (Lean Production Control), a detailed scheduling system to guide the flow of work in a low-volume/high-variety system, and (iii) the CONWIP/FISFOS/TAKT system, a system which limits the amount of work at the workfloor and only indicates priorities on job order level. We show how sociotechnical principles can be used to assess alternative shop floor control concepts. Concurrently, we discuss workplace innovation by means of the alternative shop floor control systems.

Martina Gogolova   

This article deals with the profit distribution among public passenger transport companies - Integrated Transport System (ITS) operators in the context of the Slovak Republic. Currently, there are various problems concerning the operation of the fully and systematic regional integrated public transport in the Slovak Republic. For a correct profit distribution, it is necessary to conduct a survey dealing with the use of the ITS tickets, especially of railway tickets. This article also presents the survey results. The methodological proposal for the profit distribution is presented as a sequence of steps by means of algorithm.

StĂ©phane Callens   and Sofiane Cherfi   

Regional trade agreements (RTAs) are susceptible to create a traffic diversion. Since the beginning of the millennium, multilateralism stalled (cycle Doha down) where so-called regional's policies are impulse whether from United States (TPP, TTIP) or China (OBOR: New Silk Road launched in 2013). These attempts agreements take place in the areas traversed by intensive exchanges flows, tangible and intangible. Knowledge, Innovation and Trade reinforce each other by intensity. The «intensive exchanges flows» are the transformation of macroeconomics solidarities. Since 1986, a global business cycle is based on a more or less highly dynamic of exchanges rather an informal regionalism of major trade roads. Exchange and Knowledge are joined, but with non-linearity: spillovers of knowledge are bigger if exchanges are more than average.

Xiao Zhou   

Introduce: 2015 became a significant landmark for new media industry development globally, especially in China. Tencent has become the China's largest media platform, just as that Facebook has become the first big user entry of American news media. We need change our way to think about and use those social media platform. First of all, we need understand the evolution of our economy system brought by new media. Methodology: This article uses the SCP (structure - conduct - performance) model to analyze the cross overlap areas between China's top 100 internet enterprises and China's capital markets. And author creates a 4×4 matrix tool with 16 interactive communication modes to analyze the changing path of user preference on digital social platform from C2C to S2S mode as its internal logic. Results: This article finds two important changes of China's new media industry and proposes some systematic, reasonable and feasible management strategy: First is the comprehensive platform developing tendency. Second is the growing expanding investment merger accelerates the cross-shareholdings and strategic cooperation between platform type enterprises, and help the small micro content enterprises creating a large "long tail"; Those two changes indicates that highly commercialized Chinese Internet media industry is speeding its monopoly scale, which reflects that the worldwide digital network lacks proper grass-roots management framework and multi-win interest coordination mechanism. So the most important management strategy for China's internet media industry is to build a globalized coordinating system that based on both self-control and regulations. In order to sustainably benefit individuals, countries, and business, and form a community of interests between them, we need to change the present situation of privacy protection, where individuals, countries, and enterprises stand against each other, comprehensively protect privacy, and maintain internet security use with the faith of "serve under the people" as its top priority.

Michiko Miyamoto   

This paper structures and analyzes empirical evidence in IT business value research which is theoretically guided by the intangibility of a firm's resources from the resource-based view (RBV) to find out how different companies' resources affect the IT business value in terms of competitive advantage. The empirical study uses 2,869 SEMs' survey data from the Human Capital Corporate Panel survey of Korea in 2005. Among the variables in the competitive factors, a relationship between "differentiation/ diversification and quality /customer," "differentiation/ diversification and leadership/reliability," "quality/customer and cost efficient," and "quality/customer and leadership/reliability" are strong, positive and significant. As for IT related variables, there is a positive and significant relationship with "differentiation/diversification" and a significant, strong, but negative relationship with "leadership/reliability."

Yuval Cohen   Shai Rozenes   and Roni Horowitz   

While traditional project management advocates sticking to a baseline plan (composed of budget, schedule and specifications) this paper suggests a new planning approach that includes re-evaluation and optimizes the project's value while allowing strategic changes in the project scope, budget and schedule. The proposed optimization allows taking into account not only the project, but also the long term impact of changes on cash-flows, product reliability, firm reputation, and customer satisfaction. Such changes are not part of the traditional project management approach of sticking to the baseline and eliminating a scope creep. Such a new approach enables dealing with many important changes that occur during long term projects. This is particularly important in projects with large amount of uncertainty where new knowledge is revealed or discovered during the project lifespan, and significant events occur that impact the project or its deliverables. The paper analyses the factors that make this approach desirable and the type of projects where this approach would be especially attractive.

Yeni Erita   

Entrepreneurship learning is very important at University. The purpose of this learning is to build students' character in entrepreneurship. This research was conducted in qualitative and quantitative to see thirteen characteristics of entrepreneurship. Those characteristics of entrepreneurship in this research produced three groups. The first group was very good category consisted of two items (enthusiastic and ambitious). The second group was good consisted of four items (dare to take an action, uneasy to give up, ethical standard business and independent group). The third group was adequate which was consisted of seven items (resistant to fear of failure, creative and innovative, optimist, patient and diligent, honest, carefree environment, and sensitive to market demand).

Akiko Sato   

Timely communication of accurate and practical information is indispensable for nuclear disaster management. This study aimed to collect lessons from the 2011 Fukushima nuclear disaster by analyzing people's information needs, as well as their sources and channels of information since the disaster. This study also explored common challenges they faced in information seeking, and information disparities among them. One-to-one interviews and focus group discussions were conducted in June-September 2015 with key stakeholders, involving affected residents, civil society organizations, municipal government officials and social workers in Fukushima prefecture. This study revealed that information needs immediately after the disaster directly related to their survival and the safety assurance of families and others. But information needs became diverse, reflecting a wide range of impacts of the nuclear disaster. The communication modalities on which participants relied for obtaining information varied by individual. But people experienced various difficulties in gaining information due to the chaotic circumstances during and after the disaster, the long-lasting and complicated disaster recovery process, different perceptions of radiation risks and public distrust of government bodies and Tokyo Electric Power Company. There were information disparities between affected people living in temporary housing units for evacuees and those living elsewhere. The findings indicate that risk factors for poor information access and utilization also included living in an elderly-only household, having limited social interactions, and living outside Fukushima prefecture. Study participants raised concerns that the information disparities would likely increase under the current Japanese government policy of accelerating disaster-recovery operations.

Boufeldja Ghiat   

The traditional positions of Algerian women are housewives, but with the end of the twentieth century, Algerian society begins to see women in positions of responsibility. Many of them chose to be entrepreneurs, which indicate that the country is experiencing profound social and cultural changes. The managerial performances of women entrepreneurs are influenced by their psychological characteristics and the socio-cultural environment and constraints. A questionnaire was developed and the study covered a sample of 30 women entrepreneurs from Oran - Algeria, 19 of them are married with children, and 14 of them have a university degree. The results showed that women entrepreneurs have strong personalities, marked by a spirit of adventure and initiative. These qualities are necessary for the success of entrepreneurship. The objective of this paper is to study the socio-cultural environment of entrepreneurship in Algeria, with special attention to women entrepreneurs and their psychological characteristics. The impacts of these factors on managerial practices of women entrepreneurs are pointed out.

V. Maree   and A. Carolissen   

As a country with a nuclear power program and radioisotope production facility, the Republic of South Africa (RSA) generates Used Nuclear Fuel (UNF) and radioactive waste through numerous activities. The cornerstone of South Africa's approach to addressing radioactive waste management is the Radioactive Waste Management Policy and Strategy for the Republic of South Africa. The Policy and Strategy serves as a national commitment to address radioactive waste management in a coordinated and cooperative manner and represents a comprehensive radioactive waste governance framework by formulating, in addition to nuclear and other applicable legislation, a policy and implementation strategy developed in consultation with all stakeholders. In accordance with the Policy and Strategy, final disposal is regarded as the ultimate step in the radioactive waste management process, although a stepwise waste management process is acceptable. Long-term storage of specific types of waste, such as High-Level Waste (HLW), long-lived waste and high activity disused radioactive sources, may be regarded as one of the steps in the management process. This paper presents the South African National Radioactive Waste Management Model with a description of: The radioactive waste management governance framework; the current HLW and UNF management, the management option and UNF strategies. Also the paper addresses consideration of the lessons learnt from the Fukushima accident and its impact on future radioactive waste management strategies and options, plans related to possible long term operation of the existing nuclear power plants, introduction of new nuclear power plants and public acceptance and challenges from anti-nuclear groups.

Mark Brown   

This manuscript investigates hospitals' use of human resource management practices to mitigate traumatic stress among hospital employees. Initially, the concept of traumatic stress is described and various groups of hospital employees and their sensitivity to traumatic stress are discussed. The three groups of employees considered are hospital's clinical first responders, hospital's non-first responder clinical care personnel, and a third group composed of all remaining hospital employees. Lastly, the manuscript considers specific human resource interventions to address traumatic stress along with directions for future research.

Mohammad Majedul Islam   

This paper investigates the factors played significant role to use mobile internet services. A research framework was developed to testify the statistical relationships and a survey instruments were employed on mobile internet users to collect data from 413 students from five Universities. The UTAUT model of technology acceptance and use has been utilized as theoretical framework to measure the effects of the factors that account for intention and use of the mobile internet. A multiple regression analysis is carried out to determine the attributes that affect the intention and use of mobile internet. The study reveals that performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, perceived risk, and personalization appear significant among the six attributes to influence behavioral intention and behavioral intention and facilitating conditions perform significant factors to influence actual use of mobile internet. The findings may provide feedback and contribute to the improvement of service providers' strategy and marketing program.

Arif Partono Prasetio   Tjutju Yuniarsih   and Eeng Ahman   

Organization need to develop its human resources in a way that can build the high level of organizational citizenship behaviour (OCB). Job satisfaction and organizational commitment can became an important factor which affecting OCB. The aim of this study is to identify the mediating role of organizational commitment in the relationship between job satisfaction and OCB. The samples were derived from a survey using 39 items questionnaire distributed to the 320 employees of a state-owned banking in Bandung, Indonesia. All respondents hold positions in marketing and small business market. The bootstrap confidence interval used to measure the mediation. The result revealed that there was a direct and indirect effect in the relation between job satisfaction and OCB. Since the interval did not contain zero in the equation, then the research found these relations was mediated by organizational commitment. Organizational commitment indeed contributes as mediator in the effect of job satisfaction on OCB.

Nancy Lauzon   

Enrolling in the wake of an administrative and educational reform, the implementation of a new "results-based" management is shaking the schools' traditional values and practices, so the culture that characterizes them. In light of the results of three descriptive studies conducted with different groups of stakeholders concerned by this change, this text examines some of the main facilitators and barriers associated with schools' readiness to implement new regulation and evaluation practices. It also shed some light on competencies needed by school principals and their assistants to manage such a cultural change.

Kirupa Hoole   

The study involves ascertaining the users' views of the resources and services available in the main library. The survey was conducted among the students from the Humanities and Social Sciences that are two among the main divisions, apart from aesthetic studies, that make up the Faculty of Arts. The main instrument of the survey was a questionnaire that was given to a sample of students, the data obtained from which was then analysed by appropriate statistical techniques. The study reveals that there is at the core a positive relation between the level of satisfaction among the students of the Social Sciences and Humanities and the usage of the Library, taken together with key facets ranging from resource collection to library environment, attitude of the staff and the services on offer. They have also indicated additional & existing services that would add quality to their library use. The University of Jaffna faces the challenges of a region in developing country that needs to move forward and put behind it the deleterious effects of 30 years of violence and war. The war leading to relative isolation of the region and exodus of academically competent members of the staff, inevitably posed a severe challenge to the upkeep of standards in a university that showed much promise in the early 1980s. The principal challenge facing the Library, in addition to catering to the information needs of staff and students, is to motivate students to read independently, use the facilities of the Library to enhance and satisfy their curiosity for knowledge and give us a more enlightened generation that would enable the intellectual recovery of the region to be self-sustaining.

Pham Chau Thanh   Vo Phuoc Tan   and Pham Xuan Thu   

The Southeast Region of Vietnam is considered the focus economic region with dynamic development, the growth of economy to be high and sustainable, taking the lead in the industrialization and modernization, and leading economic development of the whole country. Laying the region as a bridging role for Mekong Delta and Central Highlands region, the Southeast Region is leading the development of a number of important sectors, and contributing to improve the quality, efficiency and international competitiveness and incentive for social-economic development of the country. Researching to enhance the value chain of exporting agricultural products in the Southeast Vietnam focus economic region is to help change views of agricultural production aiming to consumer market of agricultural products before carrying out production and business. Besides, the study will help to show the needs of the market and thereby to enhance the efficiency of management in production and business, and determine the level of investment and support to enhance the value chain of the value chain of exporting agricultural products of the region. The research results also suggest the particular solutions to remove difficulties in the formation of the value chain to ensure that exporting agricultural products of the region to meet the needs of the exporting market and set up the value chain towards sustainability.

Li-Min Chuang   Pi-Ching Chen   and Yen-Yu Chen   

This study integrated with technology acceptance model (TAM) and theory of reasoned action (TRA) to construct a behavior model of green building restaurants. On the basis of TAM analysis, four constructs were identified: perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, attitude and intention. Three constructs were identified from TRA: motivation to comply, subjective norm and intention. The results shown: first, perceived usefulness, and perceived ease of use green building restaurants in Taiwan has an indirect effect on intention through attitude; second, motivation to comply has indirect effect passes through both subjective norm and attitude sequentially, with subjective norm affecting attitude. Finally, motivation to comply has an indirect effect on intention through subjective norm.

Sheng-Pin Kuan   

On the occasion of near my retirement in June 2011, I got a challengeable opportunity to undertake a mission which is applying the integration of diversified improvement technologies for implementing to a Karma factory in Thailand, as we say "SOMA Project" in brief. There are four improvement projects in total: ERP improvement project, stock improvement project, process improvement project, quality improvement project. This report is an interpretation of SOMA Project total process of progression. I just describe the improvement projects concisely, and demonstrate the result of quality project using cloud computing SPC system. Before launching SOMA project, we well organized Karma Taiwan people and Thailand people into 4 project teams, some people join one more teams, engineering people especially. For the SOP sake, we introduced Ford 8D problem solving technique to all the project teams. For the communication sake, we established document center in public website. For the progression control sake, every project team was required to present in every Monday weekly review meeting. For honesty sake, we kept meeting records by photographs and videos. For all Karma group people sake, we mailed weekly report to key man of Karma group in each Saturday. We surveyed and analyzed ERP processes by utilizing Business System Planning methodology to get a systematic result. We surveyed and analyzed stock layout by layout line chart; material picking operation by utilizing process analysis chart to let picking operation more effective. We surveyed and analyzed all the processes of SOMA factory by utilizing plant layout line chart, operation flow chart, material flow chart, process analysis chart. We collected 570 Final Assembly FQC inspection records from January 2011 to May 2011, the FTY average was under 60%. We deployed 10 more subprojects during our onsite consulting period from June 2011 to December 2011, most of project participants could follow the 8D procedure and got good results. After our onsite consulting, SOMA project keep ongoing till now, we monitor the FTY from cloud computing SPC system, FTY average was 72% in 2012, 75% in 2013, 82% in 2014.

Mariem Khadhraoui   Michel Plaisent   Lassaad Lakhal   and Prosper Bernard   

This research aims to study the impact of entrepreneurial culture dimensions on the entrepreneurial intention. Six facets of entrepreneurial culture are defined from the literature. The relationship between our dependent and independents variables is measured by the questionnaire of Barbosa and al. [1]. We addressed our questionnaire to 112 students of engineering schools from Canadian and Moroccan engineering schools and we analyzed our research variables using 20.00 version of SPSS. In accordance with previous literature, the results of our survey indicate that there is no direct impact of entrepreneurial culture on the entrepreneurial intention. However, our findings confirm some positive correlations between entrepreneurial culture dimensions and entrepreneurial intention of Canadian and Moroccan engineering school students.

Franklin T. Kudo   Keith H. Sakuda   and Garyn K. Tsuru   

The majority of research on groups and organizations has focused on the negative consequences of organizational life, but few studies have focused on how positive traits and qualities, such as hope, may impact groups. In this study we examined the relationship between hope, organizational cynicism and global job performance. All full-time employees (n = 95) of an educational institution were surveyed using existing scales for organizational cynicism (alpha = 0.94), hope (alpha = 0.87), and global job satisfaction (alpha = 0.87). Hierarchical regression confirmed existing research and suggested a negative relationship between organizational cynicism and job satisfaction (p < 0.001), and also provided evidence of a positive relationship between hope and job satisfaction (p < 0.05). Follow-up analysis showed hope partially mediated the negative relationship between organizational cynicism and global job satisfaction (p < 0.01). This study contributes to the existing literature by discovering a positive relationship between hope and job satisfaction, as well as evidence of partial mediation in regards to organizational cynicism. Hope, which has been characterized as both a state of mind and a personal trait, appears to counter the negative effects of organizational cynicism. This suggests hope may allow individuals a means to address negative workplace attitudes and conditions.

Ajay Gupta   

Fox gave the theory of constraints heuristics (TOCh) to determine the optimal product mix. This algorithm was modified by Lea for multiple constraint situations. Neither of these heuristics is applicable in the situations where complete shipment is an additional constraint. In this paper, some modifications are suggested in TOCh. With these modifications, the heuristics can be used in the complete shipment constraint situations. The working of the modified heuristics has been explained by taking two numerical examples. By comparing the results obtained from this heuristics with those obtained from integer linear programming model, it has been proved that the model gives satisfactory results.

JosĂ© Luis Fuentes-Bargues   Maria Carmen GonzĂĄlez-Cruz   and Cristina GonzĂĄlez-Gaya   

As public procurement accounts for approximately 10 to 15% of gross domestic product (GDP) in developed countries, tendering mechanisms should be clearly defined in order to avoid any actions that could endanger the basic principle that all bidders should be on equal terms. An Abnormally Low Tender (ALT) is defined as an offer too low to provide a normal level of profit and that cannot be explained on the basis of construction methods, the technical solution chosen, the originality of the work, or the favorable conditions of the tenderer. Public bodies are well aware of the risk of accepting an offer that cannot be carried out and despite the difficulty of detection recommendations for their prevention usually focus on the price criterion. Most tenders are awarded to the economically most advantageous tender (EMAT), which is assessed by various criteria (including price), though other criteria often have equal or greater weight in the final decision. The method used in this research study is divided into two main phases. First, the score of the bidders is obtained for criteria evaluated by formulae other than price, based on the contract terms of three case studies, after which new scores for these award criteria are obtained from ALT formulae, then, the results of both scoring methods are analyzed. This paper defends the need to control abnormally low tenders by means of award criteria evaluated by formulae other than those of price.

Chumpol Saichuer   Sataporn Amornsawadwatana   and Wanchai Rattanawong   

Game theory is a study of strategic decision making. To be fully defined, a game must specify the following elements: the players of the game, the information and actions available to each player at each decision point, and the payoffs for each outcome. The payoff matrix represents strategic analytical tool developed and based on the game theory. This research study applied game theory into the value cluster model in logistics service providers to present an overview of previous suggestions regarding the relationship between providers in light of mutual benefit, relationship, and satisfaction. Four different aspects in developing strategic and business perspectives were developed according to zero sum game that comprised of attack, exploit, bargain, and defend that may be considered by several organizations. An exemplary case study of logistics service providers was studied using such four different aspects.

Ulrike Bollmann   

Safety culture is the springboard for developing a culture of prevention. Without safety (Vision Zero) there can be no culture of prevention. However, the dominant functionalist approaches to safety culture fall short. Human action cannot be understood exclusively rationally or by being reduced to behaviour. A culture of prevention exists nowhere else but in human actions, in this "between" that exists between humans and that humans create as a common sphere of action. Further development of a culture of prevention through the concept of safety culture requires qualitative field research.

Yin-Yann Chen   

This study developed an extended stochastic programming model for the deterministic approach proposed by Chen, Chen and Liou [1]. Capacity planning, which plays a role in production planning, is a challenging problem for the semiconductor manufacturing industry. This study dealt with the uncertain demands of customers for a foundry industry in Taiwan. Through three scenarios, the stochastic programming model was exploited to solve the optimal medium-term capacity planning problem. The data collected from a real wafer foundry in Taiwan were treated as a fundamental scenario to demonstrate the value of the proposed stochastic programming model. The forecast demand variations in other scenarios complied with a normal distribution. The effect of the different probability distributions of demand scenarios on capacity allocation was considered. Changes in the customer order fulfillment rate or capacity utilization rate were analyzed from a series of capacity planning tests with varying demands of the initial customer. Based on different demand scenarios, the numerical results in this study revealed the concordance between the deterministic model and the proposed stochastic programming model. This stochastic programming model also expressed the flexible consideration of auxiliary tools and the increasing number of certified fabrication to the capacity planning problem in the wafer foundry.

Rosemarie Neuninger   Damien Mather   and Tara Duncan   

We investigated the effectiveness of awards on wine labels for different consumer segments. Four award configurations were tested: a well-known award, multiple awards, a fictitious award (an award without consumer trust) and no award. Participants tasted eight wine samples (four without and four with extrinsic cues - award configurations). Samples were rated for liking, likelihood to buy and price willing to pay. Low-involvement consumers' perceived liking and price willing to pay were improved by multiple awards compared to high-involvement consumers. Trust in awards increased the price consumers were willing to pay for wine with an award. For high-involvement consumers who distrusted awards, multiple wine awards and fictitious awards negatively influenced perceived liking, likelihood to buy and price willing to pay. This is the first study to measure the combined influence of wine awards and sensory perceptions of wine on perceived liking, likelihood to buy and price willing to pay.

E. A. Makarova   

Modern social environment is characterized by dramatic growth of information flows that are required to be processed to keep pace with the development of science and education. The information flows increase so rapidly that they are getting harder and harder to process using traditional methods. Visual thinking is a new way to deal with "the image of the world" not divided into separate ideas, but with holistic visual images created via visual thinking and visual operations. The goal of visualization in education is to transform huge volumes of data into graphic images easy for perception and memorizing. Visual images can range from detail graphic representations to abstract schemes and mind maps. Visual reality is presented as information constructs subject to "reading" and interpretation as much as any verbal text. Visual reality is not considered as of secondary importance in culture and education; it combines thinking and imagination thus creating semantic images unique in their cognitive potentials and in quality of multilevel information coded in them. After different teaching technologies are compared, it is concluded that visual ways of information representation are more effective because of their structured and systematized form that makes it easy to teach and learn. Such structures are kept in long-term memory and easily reached if necessary, thus contributing to memorizing a lot of information.

Rosemarie Neuninger   Damien Mather   Tara Duncan   and Rob Aitken   

Consumer levels of product involvement have conventionally been explored using questionnaires that aim to identify the existence of different consumer segments. However, the research presented here suggests that whilst questionnaires are suited to large numbers of participants, they may not provide an accurate picture of product involvement levels. Using quantitative and qualitative research to investigate involvement levels with wine and the influence of awards on purchase decisions, this paper presents results from two different types of methods that reveal differing levels of involvement. A consumer questionnaire (n= 44) classified participants into high and low involvement groups. Four focus groups with these participants were then conducted. Results from the focus groups indicate that the participants' involvement levels were not equivalent to those allocated as a result of the questionnaire responses. These results suggest current marketing scales need to be adapted to better segment wine consumers according to their level of product involvement.

Ramazan Asar   and Yeliz Çelikten   

Turkey has a strong centralized education system in which all the decision-making is done by the Ministry of National Education. The education is mostly based on a traditional classroom system which is mainly teacher-based learning. Memorization is encouraged rather than analytical or critical thinking. In Turkish Education System, school principals are appointed according to relative criteria from those who are successful in their duties as a teacher or vice principal. Despite the obvious warnings about appointment of the school principals the criteria haven't been stated concretely and the appointments have been made according to the very general qualification indicators as declared in the Law of Civil Servant, issued 657. The researcher, in addition to interviews, observed the woman principal for nearly a semester. Shortage of "permanent female principal" among the subject of the experiment forming the example has left no chance of choice to the researcher and thus she has had to be contented with a principal named Anne (psomodonious), the principal of the "Hope High School" and the results have been summarized below.

Maurice Schmidt   and Peter Nyhuis   

The appropriate response to fluctuating demand situations is a major challenge manufacturing companies currently have to face these days. In particular, the selection of appropriate measures to adapt the production system efficiently is difficult. In order to handle an expected demand fluctuation, the goal is to reply the question about the optimal adjustment time of production systems in combination with measures of capacity synchronization. By the identification of influencing variables this optimum can be found for individual measures as well as for measure combinations. With the help of dynamic capacity envelopes, a pragmatic visualization is provided as well.

Wu Wen Tsung   and Chie-Bein Chen   

In recent years, China's growing cultural industry has significantly enhanced the region's cultural level and recognized public art and continues to develop the creative industry in various Chinese cities (except Beijing, Shanghai, and Canton). Through large-scale international public art exhibitions, each city in China intends to increase its cultural competitiveness, establish an image, and develop its cultural tourism industry and cross-border cultural exchange. By doing so, they hope to produce a combined movement toward creating a sustainable cultural art industry. This study examines the strategies undertaken to conduct the exhibition for the public art installation, the Rubber Duck, by Florentijn Hofman. In particular, it focuses on Hofman's Chinese agencies and the exhibition organizers in the city of Hangzhou and investigates whether random public art indicators influence the estimated effects prior to the exhibition and if there are actual benefits after the exhibition. This study evaluates profits and investments using net present value, internal rate of return, and game options. An analysis of existing mathematical models reveals that such models can provide analytical results across varying time periods. The results of the present model can help decide whether one should invest or turn down an exhibition in a given city.

Bellmann Vivian K.   and Schmidt Matthias   

Drivers like globalization, digitalization and the demographic change force companies to constantly adapt to changing environmental requirements. In order to cope with this changes companies use process-improving and competence-increasing methods. To select the most suitable methods, a concept is needed which supports companies by identifying suitable methods. This paper describes which factors have to be considered for an efficient selection of process-improving and competence-increasing methods and how companies can identify their need to improvement with regard to key performance indicators and employee competences.

Thorben Kuprat   and Peter Nyhuis   

Regeneration service providers who are conducting maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) tasks in the field of complex capital goods face strong market-based requests like short delivery times and a high schedule reliability. Further they have to deal with uncertain workload information and high load fluctuations caused by different damages. In order to cope with these demanding challenges a holistic planning and control performance that includes all different regeneration processes is necessary. A main lever for planning and controlling internal supply chains is represented by the tasks of capacity synchronization. There are several so called design options available for synchronizing capacities. These design option influence the logistic performance and will help the service provider to reach their goals in terms of customer satisfaction.

Jen-Son Cheng   Hsin-Yu Shih   and Chih-Hung Chen   

The purpose of this research was to examine a comprehensive model of revisiting intention of festival. More specifically, the research tested a model linking festival authenticity to festival quality, satisfaction, to a given festival. Using convenience sampling method, empirical data was collected at the Taiwan's Lantern Festival in Taoyuan. A sample of 301 domestic tourists who attended the festival was surveyed. Applying structural equation modeling, the findings showed that perceived quality was found to have the direct effect on perceived satisfaction. Satisfaction had the direct effect on revisiting Intention.

Ole A. Lindaas   

A key assumption underlying analyses of risk is that analyzing risks helps generate justified beliefs about risks. Hence, by analyzing risks, we become wiser in our dealings with risks. However, what exactly is it to have a justified belief, and, moreover, is proper justification of risk beliefs within reach? These probing questions are the topics of this article in which two different perspectives on the justification for risk beliefs are examined, labeled epistemic and pragmatic justification. While epistemic justification amounts to showing that risk beliefs signify knowledge, pragmatic justification amounts to showing that risk beliefs serve as useful signposts for how to act. Arguably, much of the difficulty of providing a cogent basis for risk analysis originates from our conception of justification as only meaning epistemic justification, with this making us ignorant of the pragmatic route to justification. A point advanced in this article is that the chances of justification will be significantly improved by a broadening of perspective to include epistemic as well as pragmatic justification of risk beliefs.

Bob Eustace Waiswa   Alex Nduhura   Benedict Mugerwa   John Paul Settumba   Paul Wanume   and Hannington Businge   

Purpose- Intrigued by the poor market performance of M-Sente product of Uganda Telecom Limited (UTL), this study examined the relationship between marketing strategies and the market performance of M-Sente, a mobile money product of Uganda Telecom Limited. Specifically, study: examined the relationship between pricing and market performance of M-Sente; examined the relationship between promotion and market performance of M-Sente; and, examined the relationship between place and market performance of M-Sente. Design/methodology- The study adopted a cross section study design and both quantitative and qualitative approaches. In total, a sample of 120 respondents was chosen and included members of the marketing team, Sales team, dealers (Central), sub dealers (Central) and M-Sente outlets (Central). Data was collected by means of questionnaires and interviews, and analysis of quantitative data was done using descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings – This paper revealed that UTL's prices were lower than the competition, though customers did not feel they were getting value for money. This explains why UTL's market share continues to decline despite their competitive prices. The study findings revealed that there is a positive relationship between marketing strategies and market performance of M-Sente mobile money product of UTL. Further, it was noted that pricing had a positive correlation with market performance (r=0.444**; p<.001); promotion had a positive significant relationship with market performance (r=.171*; p<.001); and place was positively correlated with market performance in UTL, though not significantly (r=.366; p>.001).The findings of this paper show that the price of M-Sente products was found to be low although the number of customers kept on declining. This is contrary to the law of demand that postulates that the lower the price the higher the demand. Results showed that M-Sente had a small number of retail outlets distributed all over Kampala. It was not featuring significantly in the rural areas, because most people in the rural areas have no bank accounts and largely rely on mobile money transactions. This means that even if a customer wanted to use M-Sente, they had to travel far in search of an M-Sente outlet. There is revelation that customers would rather use the competitors' mobile money services (more widely spread out in every town and more accessible). The promotional strategies through advertising had proved to be very costly to UTL, yet the results from them were so minimal, contributing to significant losses. Thus, UTL needs to explore other less costly means of sales promotion, such as handing out samples of its products, having promotional products branded with its logo, or other gifts at key locations. One of the major drawbacks for UTL's M-Sente services was the limited accessibility. Therefore, the company should carry out thorough planning on the location of the mobile money outlets. The results (findings) of this research can't be generalized. Implications- Pricing is one of the marketing strategies that UTL is using to improve its market performance, by charging rates lower than the rest of the telecom companies, though this has not resulted into better market performance. UTL has engaged in a number of promotions for example sales promotion, advertising promotion and on line promotions, in an effort to inform, persuade and influence people when making a decision to buy. However, the fewer outlets in the city centre seemed to be countering the efforts through promotion. This calls for better planning on the location of the mobile money outlets within and outside Kampala. In addition, the outlets need to be strategically located in places where it is easy to outwit competitors given the marketing strategies employed.

Godfrey Aluonzi   Pross N. Oluka   and Alex Nduhura   

This purpose of this study was to establish the relationship between contract management and performance of road maintenance projects in Arua Municipality. A cross-sectional survey design was used, with data collected from a sample of 102 respondents using questionnaire survey and interviews. The study found a significant relationship between contract administration, relationship management and contract closure and performance of the maintenance projects. We conclude that improved payment mechanism, controlled contract variations, improved communication channels and dispute management improve project performance. The study recommends that the government of Uganda should increase the budget for road works; internal audit function be strengthened, contract management meetings be regularly held and contract specifications clearly articulated and adhered to; and technical staff should be trained in contract management and stringent performance measures provided as controls to adequately punish errant officials. These findings offer a useful foundation in the road sector for policy and practical improvement in Uganda.

Elisam Magara   

Like any other property, copyright as a form of Intellectual Property must be respected, and remunerated to address the socio-economic needs of society. Notwithstanding the different licensing systems and copyright protection avenues, educational and information institutions have continued to advocate for open access to information resources, under the legal exceptions for fair use. A survey using a self-administered questionnaire was conducted in educational institutions, libraries and archives in Uganda to assess the state of copyright infringement in Uganda. This paper recognizes a continued advocacy to open access to information resources, under the legal exceptions of fair use for educational purposes. Nevertheless, the uncontrolled reproduction of copyright works in educational institutions and information institutions, have contributed to copyright infringement robbing authors of their potential economic earnings and limiting their academic innovativeness and creativity. This paper attempts to underpin a need for a strategy to balance copyright protection and access to information. Thus, a strategic alliance by the Collecting Society, government, universities and right holder organisations to work together and institute a programme to address copyright protection and access to information is pertinently required.

Georgios A. Papadopoulos   Nadia Zamer   Sotiris P. Gayialis   and Ilias P. Tatsiopoulos   

In a very competitive and complex industry like the construction industry with demands for the delivery of top quality projects at very competitive prices, a significant need for an effective management of the construction supply chain has arose. Construction Supply Chain Management (CSCM) is a very promising approach to successfully achieve integration between the several disciplines of the chain (i.e. internal and external suppliers, designers, vendors, contractors, subcontractors and internal and external clients). Big international construction companies have carried out extensive research and developed computer based platforms to experiment the recent Supply Chain Management (SCM) concepts. Even though SCM in the manufacturing industry has been widely researched and developed, the application of the same concepts to the construction industry shows problems in construction supply chains are extensively present and persistent. Analysis of these problems has shown that a major part of them originate at the interfaces between the various disciplines or functions and the complex nature of the construction environment. The aim of this research study report is to provide a set of propositions for improving construction supply chain management such as benchmarking, improvement of suppliers/subcontractors performance, elimination of waste, training and information sharing between parts of the supply chain. The study includes the literature review regarding the trends of the supply chain management in construction industry, the specific characteristics and problems in coordinating construction supply chain and finally it suggests improvements in supply and demand management based on integration, collaboration, information sharing and trust.

A.R.L.Wijewardana   and T.D.Rupasinghe   

This paper aims to show how lean six-sigma philosophy can be integrated to improve productivity of the patient care supply chains. Case study approach was used and three main hospitals in Sri Lanka were studied where the results can be generalized as applicable to other contexts. The main outcome of the research, lean six sigma process improvement framework was developed to address cost effectiveness, waste reduction and quality improvements in terms facilities, input resources and processes through blending lean six sigma best practices. Efforts to apply lean healthcare concept into different aspects of healthcare supply chain is rare in existing literature thus the paper fills the gap in the literature through addressing wide range of supply chain components.

Ricardo Correia   Raquel Meneses   and SĂ­lvia David   

Wine tourism takes on a clear hedonic dimension, being especially prone to the design of experiences. The characteristics of wine tourism make this product quite compatible with the rural areas and with an evident capacity of sustainable development. Most of the studies that characterize the wine tourism experiences have a clear focus on the demand side. This paper aims at obtaining a greater insight into the leverage of the wine brands through positive experiences associated with wine tourism. Sustained on the Grounded Theory, a deep analysis of the perception that the cellars/farms have about the effect of their touristic offer on their wine brands was carried out. While there is no use of concrete measures on the supply-side, we found that there is the conviction of a reciprocal leverage effect between wine tourism experiences and wine brands. Despite the exploratory nature of this paper we conclude that wine experiences and brand value and awareness reinforce which other in an interactive and dynamic way.

M. P. L. R. Marasinghe   and Anusha Wijayaratne   

This paper discusses findings of a study that has been launched to identify the level of job satisfaction of library professionals by generational cohorts. The aim of this study is to evaluate the level of job satisfaction among three generations (i.e. Baby Boomers, Generation X and Generation Y) of the professional staff of the university libraries of Sri Lanka in terms of five job satisfaction parameters namely; work, coworkers, compensation, promotion and supervision. The population of the current study consisted of 125 library professionals of 15 universities under University Grants Commission in Sri Lanka. A semi structured questionnaire was used as the main data collection instrument. The results of the study indicated that there are some differences and similarities of job satisfaction of university library professionals in perceptions associated with three generations. There is a significant difference of job satisfaction in perception of both "work" and "supervision" among three generations. Guidelines have been developed to enhance the level of job satisfaction of university library professionals. Job satisfaction of library professionals is essential and a fundamental determinant of the development and organization of the service.

Jonas Mayer   and Peter Nyhuis   

In response to a growing complexity within the value creation in companies as well as in supply chain networks, corporate decision making tasks are primarily organized in a function-oriented way. This functional orientation is inevitably reflected in departmental objectives and corresponding objective systems which define the possible optimization strategies with respect to the decision making tasks of individual departments. Based on such department-specific objective systems, the development of conflicts of objectives between departments can be observed. This paper proposes a model-based approach to create systematization for describing interdepartmental conflicts of objectives. Based on actuating variables, control variables, result variables and objectives, the objective systems and measures of individual departments are interlinked and integrated in a cybernetic model. This cybernetic model allows the description of significant cause-effect relationships between the departments in order productions. Additionally, the impacts of the decisions of individual departments on the objective systems of other departments can be derived from the model. The model as developed is restricted to the objective system of order productions but can be transferred by way of pertinent adaptations and extensions of the specific objective system to other order fulfillment processes. The transparent presentation of interdepartmental cause-effect relationships makes it possible to increase collaboration between departments. Departments are empowered in the cybernetic model to align and optimize their actions to reflect overall corporate goals and the objective systems of other departments. Furthermore, in addition to the existing empirically motivated studies, the introduced model can expand the systematic development of collaboration in companies.

P.R. Ramakrishnan   and Badri Toppur   

Investments in stock markets are often volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous (VUCA). Can we overcome an investment decision impasse, by adopting suitable research in a particular industry with the probable risk and uncertainty embedded? This critical thinking has triggered the analysis described in this paper; the fast growing banking sector has been chosen for the study. The financial result published by the various banks up to the year ending December 2014 has been taken for our scrutiny. Furthermore, a sample of forty commercial banks listed in the schedule of Reserve Bank of India and listed with National Stock Exchange (NSE) has been taken for analysis. A non-linear portfolio optimization model has been developed that can be used by investors to park their surplus funds in Indian banking stock. This model variant allows selection of various financial ratios such as Net Interest Margin (NIM) and Non-Performing Assets (NPA) to serve as a proxy for the expected return. In addition, statistical comparisons between public sector banks and private sector banks have been conducted across important financial ratios. These tests show that private sector banks are more efficient than public sector banks when considering Return on Assets (ROA) and Net Interest Margin (NIM), but are comparable on Return on Equity (ROE).

Shaun West   and Adriano Pascual   

This paper describes a methodology that has been used successfully to assist two manufacturers in identifying opportunities for developing services based on the equipment they sell. Manufacturing firms often experience difficulties to understand the service needs of their customers over the lifecycle of their product. This paper assists those companies to identify new service opportunities by combining the approaches of product lifecycle and total cost of ownership with the customer value proposition into a new and holistic methodology. This new methodology was tested with in workshop participants of investment good companies first on a generic example of a car and afterwards applied to their specific products. The first case allowed the participants to work together and develop an understanding of the new tools. Key findings of the generic stage were the perception of how product-services systems are viewed by the owner rather than the supplier of a piece of equipment. The second case built upon their newly acquired servitization understanding allowing the participants to consider how their customer's needs change during the full operational life of the equipment. Using this combined visual approach based on the 'customer value proposition canvas', 'product lifecycle' and 'total cost of ownership' allowed to identify new service. This allows manufacturers to identify, create and deliver customer value over the full operational life of the equipment. The approach was experimental, but discussions with the teams and their managers suggested it proved useful in helping them to discover new/hidden services for their products.

Denis Lavigne   

The Institut de l'Ă©nergie Trottier of the École Polytechnique de MontrĂ©al offers four new masters in energy programmes. Enrolling graduate students come from diverse backgrounds and there is a need for an intense introductory course on energy modelling. Such a new course has been created to propose a hands-on experience that enlightens their understanding of what energy modelling is. Powerful yet simple tools such as OSeMOSYS and LEAP are used. Links with economics and environmental issues are discussed. This paper presents an overview of the various topics studied in class and will allow anyone interested in creating a similar course to have a starting point to help them on their quest to develop highly qualified professionals. Individuals completing this course gain a general overview of the field and are ready to pursue further study with the necessary knowledge to do so. It will help them to communicate their work with professionals that may not be used to work with operation research (OR) specialists. The approach is also useful for anyone wanting to learn more on the subject. A course outline completes the paper.

Jen-Son Cheng   Hsin-Yu Shih   and Ming-Hsuan Wu   

Restaurant atmosphere can produce hedonic and practical shopping value and induce consumption loyalty. The aim of this study is to construct a consumer behavior model regarding the restaurant atmosphere, experiential value, restaurant image, and consumption loyalty by using a Sport-themed Restaurant. Regarding the materials and methods, the sample frame is a Sport-themed Restaurant in kaohsiung, Taiwan. Data were from employee convenience sampling with personal interview to collect data. The research targets obtain around 400 useful questionnaires. Regression analysis is to be used to test hypothesis. The results show that (1) Sport-themed restaurant atmosphere positively impacts experiential value, (2) experiential value positively impacts restaurant image, (3) restaurant image positively impacts consumption loyalty, and (4) restaurant atmosphere positively impacts consumption loyalty. The conclusion of this study includes that hypotheses 1, 2 and 3 are supported and this study also makes suggestion for the practitioners to plan and manage Sport-themed Restaurant in Taiwan.

B. A. Anuradha   

The final phase of last century has witnessed dramatic and drastic changes in the spheres of business around the globe. The advancement in science and technology has conquered the space, time & distance, thus transforming the world into a global village. Change is the operating lever of the 21st Century business. The present business is driven by technology and business is knowledge based. The twin forces of globalization & technology revolution has orchestrated a whole new wave of changes across economies, societies thereby radically impacting the way we lead our businesses. Excellent businesses across the world have a Heart Beat! Gone are the days where people were treated as liabilities and were put under stringent work rules. Likewise management is no longer about control, command, hierarchy, title or status but is everything about making a difference, creating positive change, encouraging, enabling and empowering every employee. Thus organizations are embracing the emerging leadership practices such as Shadow Resourcing, or Succession Planning, Professional Hibernation, and Reverse Mentoring.

Sedat Bostan   Fatma Çiftçi   and TaƟkın Kiliç   

Object: The object of this study is to detect possible conflict causes in the healthcare organizations, to determine how the organization employees are affected, and to allow the applicable solutions in these conflicts to be predicted. Material-Method: Study samples were obtained from 150 personnel of Kara Mustafa PaƟa Public Hospital in Merzifon, Amasya. Data were collected via "A Scale for Conflict Causes" and analyzed. Findings and Result: According to the study results it was determined that major cause of conflict in the healthcare organization forming our samples was due to uncertainty of authorization and responsibility in the organization, and imbalance between authorization and responsibility.

JosĂ© G. Vargas HernĂĄndez   and Hugo Cesar EnrĂ­quez Gracia   

This research is based on the relationships between organizations and governments in order to establish common agreements for the good of the society, but all the most to reach a corporate welfare. On this paper we wanted to demonstrate the influence of the coercive power of the law for the more profitable companies. The point of view of the institutions and the theory of the property rights are part of the theoretical framework that has been taken as a reference to describe the relationship they has had with "Monsanto Corporation" and the Mexican government, for entry of transgenic corn in our country. It tries to generate a hypothesis based on data and information gathered to bring in this, that in a general sense, proving the strategy taken by Monsanto Co. to achieve this maize market in Mexico.

Daniel Pelletier   Frances Wildhaber   Pierre Collerette   and Michael Heberer   

A mixed methodology study of inter-hospital alliances in Germany, Canada and Switzerland was conducted to describe the goals and performance of inter-hospital alliances and to identify which alliance features best predict performance. Alliance features and performance were studied through a series of 59 interviews conducted within 12 hospitals involved in such partnerships. Respondents included administrative, medical and nursing staff. A standardized interview schedule was used to document the perceived as well as factual attributes and performance of the inter-hospital alliances they were included in. Results indicated that financial goals were not rated as being as important as improvements regarding service access and quality. A path analysis generated a seven component model of features linked to the perceived success of alliances: environmental, human and structural components of the alliances had an indirect relationship with overall success which was mediated through adaptability. Inter-hospital alliances have similar goals with regards to service quality and access, .notwithstanding the country, the type of health care system and the respondents.

Padmasiri M.KD   

Human Resource Development (HRD) is playing a major role in today's business world to enhance HR skills, attitudes and knowledge. HRD can be defined as a set of systematic & planned activities designed by an organization to provide its member with opportunities to learn necessary skills to meet current & future job demands. HRD scope has built on four major functions including career development, individual development, performance management and organizational development. Purpose of this study was to find how can be applied principles in Mahamangala Sutta to the sub components of Individual Development (ID): development of skills, knowledge and behavior in order to achieve objectives of organizational HRD. Past studies did not sufficiently explain religious perspective related to HRD discipline. Present study has involved to filling this gap by focusing on one of the most well-known suttas to explore its meanings with the scope of HRD. Researcher depended on Thripitaka (contains three "baskets" of teachings: a: Sutta Pitaka (pyxidium), Vinaya Piáč­aka and an Abhidharma Piáč­aka) and other Buddhism books. Mahamangala sutta explained thirty eight principles for individual development and this study made a bridge between Buddhism and ID by identifying how those principles categories under sub component in ID at the organization level. Application of these principles in this selected sutta will create sound outcomes to the organization where recommendations supposed to apply innovative practices in order to achieve organizations success.

Emre Belli   Ali GĂŒrbĂŒz   and Yunus Sinan Biricik   

The aim of this study is to analyze motivation of students at sports science faculty as football sports fans. To collect data about motivation of students for the current research, "Sport Fans Questionnaire" was used which was developed by Karaoğlu and Tiryaki [1] and it was administered to a total of 273 students consisting of 179 male and 94 female students. For data analysis, SPSS statistical packet program was used for frequency analysis, descriptive statistic, independent t-tests and one-way ANOVA. Tukey test was run to find out the source of the difference among different groups of participants. The analysis of fans motivations showed that there was not a statistically significant difference among participants from different departments in terms of seeking excitement-fun (p=,760), pride (p=,369), aggression (p=,093), closeness sympathy (p=,060), understanding-knowing (p=,327), and escape (p=,597). However, it was revealed that there was statistically significant difference among participants in aesthetic terms especially on behalf of students of physical education and sports. Based on these results, it can be seen that students at physical training and sports department were more motivated than the students of sports management department as a fan while watching match with regard to aesthetic dimension.

Priyangika J.S.K.C   and Cooray T.M.J.A   

Waiting lines or queues are a common phenomenon in life, especially in the province of organizations that are for profit making. Queues are common in such places as petrol or filling stations, supermarkets stores, clinics, hospitals, motor parks, manufacturing firms, to mention a but a few. An interesting aspect of queuing process resides in the measures of its system's performance, especially in terms of average service rate, systems, utilization and the costs implied for a given capacity level. This paper explains the analysis of Queuing systems for the empirical data of supermarket checkout service unit using queuing theory. One of the expected gains from studying queuing systems is to review the efficiency of the models in terms of utilization and waiting length, hence increasing the number of queues so customers will not have to wait longer when servers are too busy. In other words, trying to estimate the waiting time and length of queue(s), is the aim of this study. Queuing simulation is used to obtain a sample performance result and estimated solutions for multiple queuing models are also interested. This study requires an empirical data which may include the variables like, arrival time in the queue of checkout operating unit (server), departure time, service time, etc. A questionnaire is developed to collect the data for such variables and the reaction of the Supermarket from the customers separately. This model is developed for a sales checkout operation in the supermarket. The model designed for this research is multiple queues multiple-server model. The model contains five servers which are checkout sales counters; attached to each server is a queue. In any service system, a queue forms whenever current demand exceeds the existing capacity to serve. This occurs when the checkout operation unit is too busy to serve the arriving costumers, immediately.

Rahubaddha A.N.   Rajakaruna H.I.   Rajakaruna P.A.S.Y.   and Jayasinghe S.   

Introduction - The Sri Lankan government took measures to introduce new legislation to include graphic warnings covering 60% of the surface area of packets of cigarettes affecting from 1 January 2015. In this study we aimed to assess the knowledge and attitudes towards proposed graphic warnings on packets of cigarettes in a set of male health care workers. Method - An institution based cross sectional descriptive and analytical study was carried out in the National Hospital of Sri Lanka. The study population comprised of 119 semi-skilled workers who were selected via multi step simple random sampling. A self-administered questionnaire and samples of packets of cigarettes containing model pictorial warnings were used as study instruments. Results - Majority (63.21%) of the study population were unable to recall the already existing text-only warning messages printed on packets of cigarettes. Majority (89.47%) of the study population endorsed the view that the demonstrated sample pictorial warnings were effective in sending a stronger warning message to smokers than the prevailing text-only warnings. Majority (80.39%) of the smokers thought that the demonstrated sample graphic warnings would have a negative impact on their smoking habits. Statistically significant amount of smokers than non-smokers thought that the proposed graphic warnings would have a negative impact on future smokers. Conclusions and recommendations - These findings provide strong support for introducing graphic warnings on packets of cigarettes. Proposed graphic warnings will most likely affect the smoking habits of the public and the smokers would be made more likely to contemplate quitting smoking. Such a shift in attitude in the population could be a major impetus to reduce the smoking rate. However retrospective studies are recommended after the introduction of the graphic warnings to assess their true impact.

Chuan Shi   and Vincent Omachnu   

This conceptual framework study is aimed at building a quality gap model from consulting service to identify the consulting service gap, analyze where these gaps come from and how to mitigate these gaps by expanding the previous gap analysis studies by Parasuraman, et al., 1985^[1]. The study offers a more granular assessment of the gaps including the various encounter points in the consulting processes. The study identifies consulting services' quality gaps that are more nuanced to explain the crossroads between what clients expect and what consultants provide. During the study, a high-level flow chart and a gap model are designed to demonstrate the gaps among procedures of the consulting service. The findings of this study suggest that there are differences in the perceived level of satisfaction between consultants and clients. Despite such accounts that the literature has surprisingly few explanations for failures in consulting and the concept of this study based on consulting service experience and hypothesis, we surveyed both consultants and clients to evaluate the validation of the quality gaps and the correlations between gaps. Researchers are encouraged to future examine the presence of gaps in the client-consultant firm encounter that may be pertinent to our concept of quality in consulting service industry.

Salem Mokhtar Tarhuni   

Historic buildings (HBs) regarded as a national heritage for the countries and should therefore be maintained. Most governments have established institutions to conserve HBs. The Management of Historical Cities Bureau (MHCB) is a governmental non-profit institution has established since 1986 in Tripoli - Libya. This institution suffers from departure of senior technical staff. The objectives of this paper are to explore the rate of technical employees' movement and its impacts on the performance of MHCB and the reasons that make them leave. Also, it shed light on knowledge management (KM) efforts for recovering intellectual capital in the MHCB. Multi-methods were used for collecting data: analysing organisational documents, interviews, and observations that included taking notes and pictures. The findings presented that a high rate of technical staff left the MHCB between 1990 and 2010. This situation impacted the performance of the MHCB in terms of repetition of mistakes in repairing HBs due to a knowledge gap in the MHCB. This also, caused non-continuity of knowledge transfer and damage to accumulated knowledge, in addition to the cost of the time and money for rehabilitating technical staff. The significant hidden threat to Libyan HBs is most of departing staff will not use their knowledge in the field of HBs conservation. The chance for departing technical staff to get a job in the same field in other organization is very few. Also, the leaving of technical staff is irreplaceable because this institution is unique in Tripoli. The opportunity of specialist transition from other organization to MHCB is very few. The main reasons why employees leave the institution are: administrative changes, disagreement between employees and their heads and limited motivations combined with unhealthy and dangerous workplaces in old buildings. Finally, the paper shed light on knowledge management (KM) efforts that can recover some intellectual capital in the MHCB.

Wenli Li   and Ling Ren   

Hotel is a labor-intensive service industry, whose core competitiveness lies in the human resource. To establish cooperative relationship by entrusted agency model way is an inevitable choice which can reduce the workload and obtain more information and professional service. Nowadays, the internal and external environment is changing dramatically and the outsourcing market and related regulations are inadequate. The enterprises need to identify and control multiple risks during outsourcing process, and try to avoid threatening uncertainty for business development. In this study, firstly, literature review summarized the risks in the whole outsourcing process. Then the paper studied the case of InterContinental Shenzhen, analyzed current situation situations and problems of First-class Hotel's human resource management outsourcing, evaluated the risk factors by probability and impact comprehensively, rating the final data by risk matrix. Finally, this paper proposed the management strategies against the relatively serious risk factors. It aims to improve the consciousness of outsourcing risks by research and analysis, to provide valuable references for managers to identify the key risk and re-assign resources, to create sustainable competitive and to innovate and improve the mode of human resource management.

Klara, Szucsne Markovics   

This paper provides a comprehensive overview of capital budgeting methods preferred by corporate managers in some European countries and in the United States. On the basis of international research findings and our empirical survey, three important observations can be made: (1) a considerable amount of European and US corporations calculate the indicator of the payback period; (2) the net present value and the internal rate of return are the two most frequently used discounted cash-flow methods; (3) companies in France and Hungary used the profitability index more often than companies in other surveyed countries.

Kullachet Suthinopparrattanakul   and Vichit U-on   

The purposes of this paper were to examine the model customer relationship management of modern trade retail business. The target groups were shoppers and members in 6 modern trade stores; Tesco Lotus, Big C, Tops Supermarket, Central Department Store, The Mall, and 51ÊÓÆ” Fresh Mart, in which were total amount of 1,200 persons. The researcher used Multi-Stage-Sampling to collect all data by using questionnaires during September to October 2015 and received 1,200 copies back. Besides, the researcher analyzed the result by using Structural Equation Modeling: SEM. According to this research, IT and Marketing were affected directly to the Capability of Customer Relationship Management, but the knowledge management was not affected directly to the Capability of Customer Relationship Management. However, the Capability of Customer Relationship Management was affected directly to the result of organization management. The knowledge management and Marketing were affected directly to the result of organization management, but IT was not affected directly to the result of organization management. In addition, the result of organization management was affected indirectly from IT and Marketing that corresponded with the research assumption which was specified. But the result of organization management was affected indirectly.

Gordana Tasevska   

Quality Management (Total Quality Management - TQM) is a system to improve and increase effectiveness and efficiency of action. It includes all employees and all activities from the lowest level to the top management of the organization. In order this to be realized, a scientific, methodical, planning approach, persistence and thoroughness are being required. At the same time, that means change in the behavior of the employees, radical changes in the organizational structure, clearly defining the rights, obligations and responsibilities of each individual. Surpassing the traditional system of behavior towards staff, the foundations of a new scientific basis of management are being set. The previous is based on the maintenance of quality in the industry by taking care of the whole human potential. This system recognizes that employees are the pillar of sustainable TQM. They are expected to take responsibility for the quality of two aspects; first to embrace continuous improvement of the culture and to think about improving performance; and the second aspect is to think about how to promote all operations [3]. In order to do that they need to have the ability and information so the propulsion can lead to production of changes. Through the concern for individual development and motivation, the new management encourages employees to achieve a common goal. The first and the most important step in the introduction of total quality management system is education and training. Through them, the employees acquire the skills for their increased role in TQM. We say the first step, because the necessary knowledge for quality must be acquired first, in order to achieve the overall performance of the quality system. The effort is the result to motivation. The awards are important fact or of motivation. They dictate to improve service quality. The value of the award indicates how attractive or desirable is the future result of the behavior in the work situation, profits etc. They are important systems in TQM. Also, the training is another option through which the employees may be included in TQM. With education and training, the employees are able to manage with their new role in TQM.

Chih-Chiang Chung   Hui-Chen Lee   and Ching-Yi Lin   

The purpose of the study was to discuss the relationship among leisure experience, perceived value and behavioral intentions for the tourists in Xitou Monster Village, Taiwan. 260 copies of questionnaire were distributed and 247 copies were effective. The data was analyzed by using descriptive statistics analysis, exploratory factor analysis, reliability analysis, validity analysis and linear structural equation modeling. The results were as follows: 1. The tourists background are mostly: female, 21~30 years old, living in the north, graduated from universities, monthly income under NT$20,000, traveling with relatives, driving by self and introduced from friends; 2. The result of path analysis indicated that leisure experience had a significant impact on perceived value; leisure experience had a positive effect on behavioral intentions; perceived value would positive affect on behavioral intentions. According to the result, suggestions and managerial implication also recommended.

Milena Alič   

Purpose: The paper highlights the issue of teaching for quality in our regular higher education programmes – just to have an insight into the situation and to find some improvement opportunities. Design/methodology/approach: Analysing a case from Slovenia our survey study focuses on quality management related courses at all the levels of education to see if they follow the realized importance of quality management in all spheres of life proved through literature review, manager claims and even through politician and journalist statements. It also analyses final student papers (undergraduate, graduate, master and doctoral theses) that could signal the students' interest in quality management. Findings: Slovenian education institutions do follow quality requirements regarding institution management. However, they offer only few specific quality management related courses. Additionally, less than 5% of published final student papers in faculties offering quality management related programmes are related to quality matters. Research limitations/implications: The analysis of quality management related final student papers was limited only to the biggest Slovenian University in this preliminary research. It should be followed by some more detailed research on this topic giving stronger suggestions. Practical implications: School programmes should cover business needs regarding quality management knowledge and skills. Social implications: Teaching for quality through regular school programmes would be the most effective and systematic way to improve the culture of quality and responsibility in the society and to implement it in our organizations as well. Originality/value: The literature review showed some research on quality management of the higher education institutions. However, no research on quality topics in their offered courses and in student papers has been found.

Suntaree Puttiworn   

A study of procurement methods by purchasing agreements: a case study of private corporations in Thailand. This study is a survey research with three objectives; 1) to study the processes of procurement by purchasing agreements, 2) to study processing time for procurement by purchasing agreements, 3) to study means to improve performance of procurement by purchasing agreements; a case study of international business organization of private corporations in Thailand. Variables are determined as; 1) personal factors (gender, age, education level, experience, and income) as independent variables, 2) detail inspection, bidding documents preparation and contact supplier sources, procurement, receiving inspection, and payment.[14] The results revealed that: General information: There were female more than male that response to the questionnaire, at 60.0 percent, and the respondents were mostly age between 31-40 years old, 17 persons and at 42.5 percent. The results indicated that 18 persons, 45.0 percent, which were the most respondents, were bachelor degree graduates. Furthermore, the most respondents worked at operational level, 19 persons, and 47.5 percent. For experience of the respondent, there were 16 persons, 40 percent, who have worked for at least 1-5 years. Most of the respondents, 11 persons and 27.5 percent, have their income more than 50,000 Baht. Detail inspection: For the detail inspection, most of the respondents have given their highest opinion on procurement staffs that receive online requisition forms from requisite persons, 4.13 percent. The second highest opinion was on detail inspection of the requisition forms, 4.00 percent, and the third highest opinion was on whether audit systems, to guarantee that the regulations were followed, are available, 3.86 percent. And the lowest opinion was given to whether types and amounts were indicated in requirement notification or procurement request, 3.83 percent. Combine mean was 3.96 with deviation 0.72. Bidding documents preparation and contact supplier sources: For bidding documents preparation and contact supplier sources, most respondents found that seller records as well as statistics of price and amount are available has the highest frequency, 3.95 percent. The second highest frequency was estimate cost was indicated in order to compare with offering price, 3.85 percent, and the third highest frequency were comparison to latest buying price and/or from various sellers in order to get the best price possible, and easy to contact with sellers or supplier sources, which have equal mean at 3.82 percent. Combine mean was 3.86 with deviation 0.62. Procurement: For procurement, the highest opinion from the respondents was given to preparation of purchasing orders and its copies for accessories; which are receiving inspectors, procurement informants, accountants or finances, 4.56 percent. The second highest answer was appropriate procurement, 3.92 percent, and the third highest answer was procurement by procurement staffs under material request forms or approved procurement licenses, 3.82 percent. And the lowest was fast and accurate procurement, 3.80 percent. Combine mean was 4.02 with deviation 1.71. Receiving inspection and payment: For receiving inspection and payment, most of the respondents have given the highest opinion to counting of amounts and types of received material with purchasing orders or invoices, with at least 2 inspectors’ signatures, 4.05 percent. The second highest opinion was specifying department that responsible for payment inspection, 4.00 percent, and the third most frequent answer was receipt that has been paid should be marked to avoid repeated payment, 3.95 percent. And the lowest opinion was identifying authorized receiving inspectors, 3.87 percent. Combine mean was 3.96 with deviation 0.62.

Sudarat Pimonratanakan   

The objectives of this research were to study of the idea of retailer about service, study about idea levels of retailer of logistic service and study of problems in other services included commendation and recommendation about the solving problem and improving in term of logistic service. This research was a survey research. The sample group in this research was retailers that collected data by distribution questionnaire for 400 samplings then to data analysis by percentage, mean, standard deviation t-test and f-test. The research result found that most of respondents were women for 200 persons, age around 30-40 years, married status, bachelor’s degree and retail experience above 5-10 years, the idea about logistic service in term of quantity of products which had corrective order, time of delivery to fast, convenience, value added product service and communication with purchasing department that total had average at high level respectively. The hypothesis testing found that personal factors were gender, age, status, education levels and retail experience difference. The idea of quality of logistic service of retailer was not different statistical significance level of 0.05 therefore retail learnt about the key of logistic service principles.

Lamphai Trakoonsanti   

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the operation of passenger check – in desks of Nok Air at the Nakhon Si Thammarat airport, Thailand in order to simulate the operational model to improve efficiency in processes. This is because its functions describe how the objects move between the elements and model a variety of real processes. The methodology in this research is to implement the SimQuick process simulation software which helps analyze emerging needs of major objects model and determine the flow of operations, including entrances, work stations, buffers, and decision points and exits. By collecting useful data, the simulation model of how the check- in desk of the airline is operated can be accurately drawn, and conclusions as well as suggestions can be made. The approach formulated demonstrates the efficient allocation of resources and the resolution of operational issues that could prevent ultimate outcomes.

Andre Marcal Kanashiro   and Jian Xie   

This paper discusses chemical and physical analyses of Paranagua Port’s dredged material based in the relevant dredging legislation in Brazil, Conama No 454/2012. It was analyzed samples before dredging activity of Paranagua Port`s berth. Most of samples had concentrations below Level 1 established by CONAMA Resolution No. 454/2012. However, considering the nature of these contaminations, we can suggest that losses during the operations of loading / unloading, storage and transfer of products in Paranagua Port, constitute sources of polluting materials into waters of the berth samples. Most of contamination may come from fertilizers as Paranagua Port exports grains and imports fertilizer to control food production.

Makoto Kimura   

This study examines the consumer-side multihoming among original and derivative digital games are developed for different platforms such as arcade game cabinets and video game consoles, both of which are popular with consumers in the Japanese market. To do this, the system dynamics model accounts for arcade game, console game, and multihoming users, and the effects of advertising and word-of-mouth is proposed. After the validation of model using a single case study, the business policies implementation by varying the release dates of a console game (derivative content) are simulated and the fluctuating patterns of arcade game and console game sales, the multihoming ratios are examined. The simulation results indicate that the multihoming user may be a preferred customer who pays more usage fees for the original content, moreover, the multihoming user may pay usage fees for the derivative content or purchase it, rather than single homing user. This study suggests various hypotheses regarding consumer-side original and derivative content-level multihoming together with options for business scenarios within the digital game industry, which would develop the insights on the diversity of a set of contents and the interfaces, and how they form the pseudo-ecosystems and create the values by the interactions.

Grace Amin   and Genoveva Claudia   

In 2015, the countries of South East Asia will be entering to the free market. In order to be competitive, every company must prepare themselves well, including PUC as one of international educational institutions. The objectives of this research are to determine the effect of motivation, competency and organizational learning towards global mindset. In this research, the researcher used quantitative approach. Data were collected by structure questionnaire distributed to 98 respondents. Descriptive statistics, classical assumption, multiple regression test, hypothesis test which included T-test (partial test) and F-test (simultaneously test) were employed to analyze data. Based on the analysis of data, it can be concluded that from the 4 hypothesis, 2 of them significant hypotheses.

Kuo-Yan Wang   and Hsien-Yu Shun   

Since investment in employee education and development represents a significant capital expenditure, the recruitment of employees whose personal characteristics, professional skills and abilities meet the required standards are the important aspect of business management. In small and medium enterprises selecting appropriate individuals to fill management positions represents a significant challenge. This paper focused on an empirical case study utilizing the data of 100 management trainees using back propagation neural networks to determine the probability of retaining management associates. Several surprising results were obtained. Implications for win-win employee-employer relations and practice are discussed.

Can Gunduz   Asli Ceylan Oner   and Paul L. Knox   

Being open to global processes brings up the question of social resilience in Slow Cities, which is about the ability of the system to absorb shocks without experiencing changes [1]. Since these cities are inevitably affected by global flows and ideas, how will they be able to protect their identity? In this regard, Scott (2013) [1] defines two types of resilience: equilibrium and evolutionary resilience. Equilibrium resilience is about going back to normal, whereas evolutionary resilience is about adaptability and creating long term innovative planning and policy responses to change; embracing change and utilizing it as a path forward that needs to be embedded in social networks [1]. This paper proposes that evolutionary resilience is the key for sustainable growth of Slow Cities within a progressive framework and explores possible barriers and solutions to achieve evolutionary resilience for slow cities. The paper examines Aegean Slow Cities with a specific emphasis on Seferihisar, the first Cittaslow of Turkey as a case study.

Ali Rostami   

Risk identification plays a key role in the success of managing risk. Failure in the identification of risks can cause inadequacy in the whole process of risk management which led to non-achievement of organisational objectives. Tools and techniques facilitate the process of identification, and need to be adopted on the basis of firms' characteristics. The difficulty to recognise applicable tools and techniques within organisations is investigated as one of the key barriers that obstruct practise of risk management. This study discusses the efficacy of different tools and techniques of risk identification within Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the UK construction industry. Results from a questionnaire survey shows the challenges faced by SMEs in undertaking risk identification and highlights the most common techniques adopted among 453 organisations. Documentation review, expert judgment, checklist analysis and information gathering are seen as the most important techniques within risk identification; which are practised for their valuable results, uncomplicated processes and easy to understand structure. Conversely, the group-based techniques like brainstorming and Delphi techniques because of SMEs' inadequate level of knowledge and resources are less practised.

Loan Thuy Bui   

Libraries and archives offices in Vietnam are going marching forward, hand in hand, on the way to international integration. There are many theoretical and practical issues both library and information science and archival science have in common. In the past decades scientific research activities in the field of library, information and archives were conducted independently employing a monophyletic thinking style. Therefore, promoting renovation of scientific research thinking, as well as scientific topics towards inter- and multi-disciplinary approach in library and information science and archival science, has become urgent in the country. This paper aims to answer the questions: Why change? Why change at this point in time? What are the study fields? What kinds of study subjects or phenomena must be approached in an interdisciplinary manner? And how can we bring about the changes?

A.A. Anwar Prabu Mangkunegara   and Miftahuddin   

This study aims to determine the effect of transformational leadership and job satisfaction to employee performance. The method used in this study was 'explanatory research' with the techniques of collecting data through questionnaires. Analysis of processing the data is by using multiple regression and partial. The results showed that transformational leadership and job satisfaction influence to performance positively and significantly either partially or simultaneously. Recommendations made to management are that management can maintain and even increase the factors that can effect performance in this study.

Jils Baby Emmanue   and Santhosh. P. Thampi   

Research and discussions of EI predicted the possibility of the linkage between Emotional Intelligence skills and interpersonal facilitation. This study was conducted to examine empirically the extent to which Emotional Intelligence contributes to the interpersonal behaviours of managers and supervisors in Public Sector Enterprises in Kerala. The sample comprised of 500 respondents of which 243 were Managers and 257 were Supervisors in Public Sector Enterprises in Kerala. The data were analysed using SPSS 21 in which tools such as ANOVA, Correlation and Regression were applied. The results indicated that there is highly significant and positive relationship between Emotional Intelligence and interpersonal facilitation of managers and supervisors of Public Sector Enterprises in Kerala.

Hamid Hassan   Sarosh Asad   and Yasuo Hoshino   

This study addresses the inconsistency of contemporary literature on defining the link between leadership styles and personality traits. The plethora of literature on personality traits has culminated into symbolic big five personality dimensions but there is still a dearth of research on developing representative leadership styles despite the perennial fascination with the subject. Absence of an unequivocal model for developing representative styles in conjunction with the use of several non-mutually exclusive existing leadership styles has created a discrepancy in developing a coherent link between leadership and personality. This study sums up 39 different styles of leadership into five distinct representative styles on the basis of similar theoretical underpinnings and common characteristics to explore how each of these five representative leadership style relates to personality dimensions proposed by big five model.

Abdulraheem Ali Alghamdi   

This study deals with an important and vital subject that focuses on determining the role of market knowledge and Blue Ocean Strategy in achieving competitive advantage, and that is because of the scarcity of management studies in general, and marketing studies in particular, which addressed the nature of the relationship and impact between these three concepts .The study problem was represented by the question: what is the state of the Blue Ocean Strategy in Saudi Arabian organizations, how is it affected by market knowledge and what is its impact on achieving competitive advantage. This study aims to reveal the extent of the realization of the organization under study of market knowledge and Blue Ocean Strategy. It also aims to determine the relationship and impact between market knowledge dimensions and the dimensions of the Blue Ocean Strategy, determining the relationship and impact between the Blue Ocean and the dimensions of the competitive advantage strategy, the relationship and impact between market knowledge dimensions and competitive advantage dimensions and determining the relationship and the indirect impact of market knowledge on achieving competitive advantage through the Blue Ocean Strategy. The study was conducted on employees who occupy supervisory positions in Marketing Department of Saudi Telecom Company. The number of valid questionnaires for analysis amounted to (64), which were analyzed using statistical software (SPSS). The study reached several conclusions, including: There is a high degree of acknowledgement among participants in the study about: market knowledge dimension, Blue Ocean Strategy and competitive advantage; there is a relationship and impact between market knowledge dimension and Blue Ocean Strategy dimension; there is a relationship and impact between Blue Ocean Strategy dimension and competitive advantage dimension; there is a relationship and impact between market knowledge dimension and competitive advantage dimension, there is a relationship and an indirect impact of market knowledge on achieving competitive advantage, and that is through the Blue Ocean Strategy.

Lisa K. Jones   and Stephen J. O'Connor   

This article examines the use of Red Rules in hospital patient safety culture. The purpose of this study is to explore the effects of Red Rules on hospital staff perceptions of safety, frequency of events reported, number of events reported, and staff perceptions of non-punitive response by management. A survey was conducted among hospitals that completed the U.S. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture during the years 2007 to 2011. A sample of hospitals who implemented Red Rules were compared with a similar group who did not. Contrary to expectations, this study did not find statistically significant differences between the study group (Red Rules) and the comparison group (Non-Red Rules). In the absence of evidence on the use of Red Rules, some hospital leaders have elected not to use them, assuming that they are inconsistent with a just culture and with improving patient safety. The results do not provide support for this belief. Used within a commitment-based management style as a communication tool to support staff in following safety rules rather than as a disciplinary tool in a control-based environment, Red Rules can be part of a comprehensive strategy to improve patient safety.

H. Butuner   

The purpose of this paper is to explain the things to be done before and after starting with the strategic planning work. Before beginning with strategic planning, businesses must have articulated their missions and visions, and identified their basic policies. For this reason, proper formulation of mission, vision and basic policies will play a determining role for the success of strategic plan. Strategic plan outlines the path between the current status of business and the desired status to achieve. It helps the business to establish its objectives, goals as well as the decisions to achieve these objectives and goals. It involves a long-term and prospective perspective. Strategic plan provides guidance for the preparation of functional plans and business budget in such a manner that they reflect the objectives, goals and grand strategies of the strategic plan during the implementation, as well as for basing resource allocation on priorities. In short, this paper helps businesses to define their integrated strategic plans with their vision and functional plans by offering them a comprehensive guideline.

Tin Chaingam   and Sahanon Tungbenchasirikul   

To compare and evaluate alternative model, in order to determine the suitable management for presenting an efficiency selection to administrator, the scope of research focused on the operations and feasibility study of the Suvarnabhumi Airport Rail Link (SARL) project. The results showed that the only business models with potential were by being a subsidiary company under the State Railway of Thailand (SRT). Further, the feasibility study was conducted and found that both of business models which are business unit and subsidiary had the same payback (PB) period of 12 years and 4 months but the return on investment (ROI) of the subsidiary company was better as shown the summarizing table in appendix. It is suggested to apply the strategic management with efficiency and effectiveness to improve the service quality and the image of the organization. Further study should focus on exploring an economic impact of the project that benefits the economy and society. The effects of those may bring returns to the society or country other than only Suvarnabhumi Airport Rail Link (SARL) itself.

Diana Foris   

The study deals with the importance of public policies and strategies for tourism in the context of the current situation of insecurity generated by the terrorist attacks. Reviewing the current tense situation, the terrorist threat is growing, thus we identify the effects on tourism and travel. Analyzing the factors that may cause the intensification or reduction of tourism development is carried out through the prism of their coverage under the public policy upon tourism, as well as the influence of these factors relating to their employment with the impact on tourism in the category of stimulating factors or those of constraints, favoring the aspects that determine or brake tourism. In this respect, it is analyzed the influence of public policies of investments in general and touristic infrastructure, of public policies with social component, of public policies with an organizational - administrative component and of public policies with political component. It is analyzed the need of security policies, public policies with a political component, with the organizational and administrative component of government policies to ensure the development of tourism and travel industry. In light of, we focus on the strategies on the national tourism master and marketing plans, in an analysis of the situation at the international level.

Patchareerat Yanaprasart   

In order to meet global demands, multinational enterprises have developed practices of recruiting international staff. This, in turn, has led to a significant increase in cultural and linguistic diversity at all levels of the workforce and has thus created new challenges. One of them is to find how organizations can best manage and balance the need for divergence (complexity, diversity, differences) and convergence (cohesion, uniformity, standardization). In this context, English as a lingua franca is regarded by some as a condition for the universality of business knowledge and communication. This principle rests on the assumption that language is transparent, functioning as a neutral vehicle to express ideas and share discoveries. The premise that ‘one language fits all' could impoverish innovation and creativity, leading to business monoculture and standardized patterns of thinking. A multilingual model in action affords a plurality of perspectives and ensures that objects and phenomena are seen through different prisms. Based on the content analysis of semi-structured interviews with agents at different levels in multinational, national and regional companies in Switzerland, this contribution will explore the challenges arising from language diversity in multilingual mixed team work. The impact of each linguistic diversity management model will be also identified. The main objective of this contribution is to procure detailed knowledge of different language regimes and the diverging relevance of linguistic diversity as a part of the organizational diversity management, by highlighting the complex interplay between contextual-organizational elements (organizational ‘top-down' discourse), observed ‘bottom-up' practices and actors' views regarding language ideologies. Understanding the complexity of language diversity management in the workplace can help companies to manage languages in an innovative way, to monitor their "diversity performance" and to identify clues and indicators to measure the success (or failure) of their diversity initiatives.

Lawrence G. Boakye   and Li Liu   

International Development Projects (IDPs) are plagued with failure although they have become and will remain an important instrument of activating and achieving development in developing countries. They are failing at an astonishing rate, despite genuine management efforts. This paper looks into IDP failure using three real-world classic examples of failed IDPs and confirms a marked consistency in factors that cause failure of both IDPs and conventional projects. It identifies and describes some common factors for IDP failure with a view to understanding them so as to reduce the rate of their failure. The paper introduces new stimulating research ideas and provides a platform for the incremental accumulation of future research on IDPs. Findings will benefit project professionals, especially IDP professionals, development-oriented organisations and the International Development Body of Knowledge.

Faisal Hanif   Muhammad Mohsin   Muhammad Adeel   and Syed Mehmood Shah   

In the present study, a model was developed to describe relationships between impacts of intra-group conflict on group performance-moderating role of cultural diversity. Data from 170 employees working in teams of GSM cellular companies located in Pakistan support our hypothesis. Findings indicated that intragroup conflict had direct negative effects on group performance effectiveness. Furthermore, our findings suggest that reducing intragroup conflict and providing team members with the abilities to manage conflict effectively is a way to increase group performance and implement strategies to decrease a stressful work environment and increase team-building activities.

Orasa Suksawang   

This research applied feedback loops of sustainable resource management system as a framework of an integrated curriculum "BEST ACTIONS" for lifelong learning, and training the trainers in low carbon communities, aiming to transfer a sustainability concept into practice. The curriculum comprises interconnected knowledge topics, displayed in the loops, relating to economic and environmental problems that need science and technology approach to create "BEST Credit" and management skills needed to achieve "BEST Climate" and solving social problems that need holistic thinking, for multi-problem solving, approach to realize best ACTIONS. All knowledge was integrated and transferred, through seven activities in two-day workshops to communities at the Nakhon Phanom province in Thailand, under the project titled: "Biomass to Energy and Biochar Community: BEBC" (2013-2015), funded by the Energy and Environment Partnership with Mekong (EEP Mekong). At present, the participants have adopted the sustainability concept in community business, dealing with biomass and biochar. The design of "BEST ACTIONS" and its applications in workshops and real life practices are discussed.

Brian Ogle   

The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the effectiveness of interactive exhibits at instilling conservation behaviors and appreciation towards wildlife. Aquarium visitors completed a survey prior to visiting an interactive exhibit that allowed them to touch aquatic invertebrate species. After visiting the exhibit, participants were asked to complete another survey. Comparison of pre- and post-test measures revealed that the aquatic interaction increased how knowledgeable individuals felt about aquatic wildlife (Cohen's d=0.52, p<0.001) and the likelihood that participants felt they would take action to protect aquatic wildlife (d=0.60, p<0.001). The aquatic interaction, however, had only a small effect on how much participants valued aquatic wildlife (d=0.20, NS) and virtually no effect on how strongly participants felt about the importance of protecting aquatic wildlife (d=0.01, NS). The study also demonstrated that visitors who had prior interactive experiences with zoo or aquarium animals indicated higher knowledge of wildlife than those who had not previously engaged in such experiences (d=0.46, p=0.02).

Cornelia Bohalteanu   

The study is about history of health and safety legislation in Romania, about European tools, empowerment procedures, organisations and association in the field. It`s an overview about European tools to allow people free movements all around European Union (EU). The study presents tools which identifies the fundamental skills, the most important abilities and knowledge that people would need to be recognised, in order to allow free movements all around European employment market. The study is about possibilities to be voluntary recognised as a health and safety professionals across EU and why not, around the world. It`s a brief list of ways of transfer and recognition of learning experiences in Europe, including vocational education and training, for a better understanding of qualifications from different EU countries. The research presents ENSHPO (The European Network of Safety & Health Professional Organisations) and EUSAFE (European project) voluntary certification procedures for occupational health and safety professionals (OHS) and where the Romanian practitioners are placed, if their qualifications could be recognised through Europe. The research presents the necessary characteristics for a well developed profession, as mentioned by Ferguson & Ramsay [1] and also presents IOSH, the most valuable health and safety professional association and the necessary steps for Romanian OHS practitioners to build a strong association. IOSH is the model of a profession and Romanian practitioners could learn to become Charted Members. The European Union single market - as well as the increasing number of companies operating across Europe that are applying a consistent set of safety and health standards to their work sites - has created a great need for safety and health managers with credentials that are recognised at a Pan-European level. The absence of a harmonised, agreed system for the mutual recognition of safety & health qualifications at a European level creates uncertainty about professional competence across countries within Europe and may create problems for multinational companies in the effective use of their safety and health expertise. It also forms a barrier for safety and health professionals wishing to offer their services across the EU. Knowing their training level is necessary to determine the training needs of OHS practitioners, now that Romania has joined the EU in order to allow free movement of the work force. Knowing where to start and what needs to be improved, will allow the Romanian practitioners to be just as good and compete with their European colleagues. The study will show which of the Romanian empowerment procedures was better, with or without examinations and if this examination procedures make them better ones. The research is part of a study that aims to thoroughly analyze the transformation in the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) field in Romania following the major political, economic, social and cultural transformations that are necessary in the context of Romania`s accession to the European Union. The research evaluates the current experience and training needs of Romanian OHS professionals. A review of the changes in the legislation and qualification requirements in Romania will be presented and placed into the context of European legislation and standards.

Andrew L'Ecuyer   and Syed Adeel Ahmed   

The importance of effective change control when developing software is well known throughout the Information Technology (IT) industry. Any software development project will deal with various forms of change throughout its lifetime, and without effective change control processes in place changes can lead to unforeseen, and often negative, consequences for an organization [8]. Yet despite this, change will almost always occur, and should therefore be anticipated. The change control processes in place on a software development project vary depending on the software development methodology being utilized [3]. Agile software development methodologies have become increasingly popular in recent years, with eighty-eight percent of respondents in a 2013 survey stating that their organization was practicing Agile [1]. According to Winter[1], Scrum is the most popular of the various Agile methodologies. A primary motivation for switching to Agile methodologies such as Scrum has been to better manage changes that were always inevitable, yet difficult to manage when utilizing traditional software development methodologies, such as the Waterfall methodology [4]. As more and more organizations transition to the Agile Scrum methodology, they must ensure processes are in place to properly control all forms of change. This includes changes that fall within the scope of a single project, as well as changes with a scope that extends across the enterprise. This paper explores various forms of change control and provides strategies and methods for effectively controlling and managing all forms of change on Agile software development projects.

Endi Sarwoko   and Christea Frisdiantara   

Small Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are still an issue that is interesting to study because it is recognized that small businesses have a major role in employment and contribution to the gross domestic product. Previous research shows that the growth of SMEs is determined by the owner/manager characteristics (personal approach), and how the strategy is taken (managerial approach). This study empirically tested the three determinants of growth of small businesses, namely 1) the individual factors 2) organizational factors, and 3) environment factors. The study was conducted in SMEs assisted in the district of Malang, using a sample of 52 owners/managers of SMEs, which are taken by purposive sampling, analysis techniques using Path Analysis. The results showed that individual factors directly affects the growth of the business, as well as an indirect effect through organizational factors. So the individual factors are a determinant of the growth of SMEs, due to individual factors which reflected the business experience and the motivation of the owners/managers will be able to manage the organization becomes more effective so as to compete, and the effects are on the achievement of business growth. Environmental factors provide the greatest impact in achieving the growth of SMEs, it means the ability of owner/managers to produce competitive products, leverage technology, and diversity of products will determine the growth of SMEs.

Yvar Geerman   and Suhansa Rodchua   

Customer services and technology used in today's business are subjected to continuous improvement in a pursuit to enhance work performance and customer satisfaction. The purpose of this study is to determine the most important dimension of customer satisfaction perceived by three different groups of participants in financial institutions: college students, employees, and retired individuals. The study used online questionnaire in data collection with 126 respondents from the University of Central Missouri community. The results indicated that reliability was the most important dimension of customer satisfaction. Other important dimensions were responsiveness, security, and credibility. One-way Analysis of Variance and SPSS 21.0 was utilized as a statistical tool to determine the relationship among variables. With alpha 0.05 level, the hypotheses testing showed that there was no significant difference in the most important dimension of customer satisfaction between genders and between different groups of participants. This study recommended that the research in customer satisfaction and technology used in financial institutions must be on-going process with emphasis on long-term relationship with their customers.

Olga Vybornova   Nicolas Dubois   Roland Gueubel   and Jean-Luc Gala   

Improved information collection, interpretation and processing are vitally important for optimized crisis response. A comprehensive information management (IM) system using ontology-based approach is aimed to handle heterogeneous information and to model the operational domain knowledge associated with the deployment of a light fieldable laboratory (LFL) during the recent Ebola crisis in Guinea. This LFL mission was part of the B-LiFE (Biological Light Fieldable Laboratory for Emergencies) project which integrates analytical and space-based technologies. LFL can be considered as a toolbox where all operational functions and related tools are incorporated into a single information space. Ontology can therefore be applied to facilitate the preparation and management of next LFL missions. The aim is to provide technical compatibility of information shared between tools and to align terminology and definitions while complying with guidelines, best practices and procedures. Accordingly, the LFL domain becomes a formalized and structured modeling of LFL concepts, procedures and functions which, in turn, helps distinguishing functions which are necessary for the mission from those which are incompatible according to a given mission or scenario. Such consistent logical modelling allows then to efficiently plan and configure any LFL mission by selecting and activating in due time, among all available functions and tools, those which are strictly mandatory.

Kanna K Siripurapu   and Martha E. Geores   

Gender and equity studies on participatory natural resource governance in India have remained highly concentrated only to the aspects of men vs. women in the joint forest management (JFM), and the reasons for failure and non-participation of the women in JFM. Research studies thus far on gender lacks focus on the diversity existing among women as a forest resource user group. Earlier studies have also ignored the role of women in large scale self-initiated CBFM systems found in the states of Odisha, Jharkand and Bihar. Although, earlier studies mentioned about the spaces and supporting structures that would enable better participation of women in participatory natural resource management programmes, however, they did not identify the spaces and structures that are in operation at the grassroots. A case study adopting the multiple case study approach was conducted on the self-initiated community-based forest management in the Indian state of Odisha to identify the enabling spaces and supporting structures that might be helping women to participate actively in participatory forest management in Odisha. In this article based on our case study we present the enabling spaces and supporting structures that were perceived to be enhancing women's participation in the self-initiated community-based forest management in the Indian state of Odisha.

Jared Landry   and Syed Adeel Ahmed   

Lean manufacturing is a technique that incorporates the elimination of waste, non-value-added activities, and developing a lean workforce. These practices are not implemented into an organization without a committed workforce, upper management leading by example, and the right techniques and management to ensure a smooth transition. Intralox has implemented lean manufacturing and operations into its culture to produce high quality parts efficiently and effectively. They have executed this practice through a lean workforce, levelizing inventory, and building in quality to each step of the process. These practices have ensured Intralox is a competitive organization in the plastic manufacturing industry.

Wu Ho-Tang   and Chou Mei-Ju   

This study adopts workplace spirituality viewpoint to develop Teacher' Sense of Organizational Identification Scale. There are four procedures in process of developing the scale: 1. Literature analysis: In the past, people mainly developed Sense of Organizational Identification Scales by social identification theory or workplace spirituality. Sense of organization identification from scales of workplace spirituality is classified as the organization level, which content can be further divided as sense of goal connection, sense of identification with organization's values, and sense of organization care. Following literature analysis, draft of 18 items was proposed. 2. Reviewed by experts: After the initial draft of the 18 items were reviewed by four experts, one was deleted, one added, fourteen remaining the same, and three modified. 3. Exploratory Factor Analysis(EFA): The 18 items after reviewed by the experts were conducted EFA(N235), and further divided into item analysis, factor analysis, and reliability analysis. In the first analysis, due to low loading of two items, we deleted them. After analyzed again, the reliability became acceptable. 4. Confirmatory Factor Analysis(CFA): We further investigated 332 teachers to confirm whether the Three Factor model's 16 items are stable. The result showed the initial model fits well. In addition, the initial model's basic fit does not "offends estimation," and the fit of the internal structure is acceptable(including the individual reliability, the composite reliability, the average variation extraction, and the construct discrimination analysis). Up to now, the Three Factor 16 items in the Teacher's Sense of Organizational Identification Scale was established, including sense of connection to organization's goal's(5 items), sense of connected to organization's goals(5 items), and sense of identification with organization's values(6 items). To conclude, the Sense of Organizational Identification Scale with three factor's 16 items has acceptable reliability for relative research.

Mukaddes Yesilkaya   

This study was aimed to analysis the relationship between the level of the emotional labour displayed by senior managers toward the employees and their owned empathic tendency. In this aim, this research was carried out with 403 senior managers in office. The sample of this study was analysed via an appropriate statistical program. On one hand; it was found that there was no significant difference between level of the emotional labour used by senior managers toward the employees and their owned empathic tendency; on the other hand, that there was a significant influence of emotional labour towards employees on senior managers' empathic tendency.

Sunita Kumar   

Advertisers today spend most of their time in understanding the science to peer into consumers' minds. Today Neuromarketing has given them the power to delve into our subconscious mind. It is always very difficult for a marketer to understand the customer mind set. How a customer selects a particular product or service, where they look for information and how they search for it. To investigate how attention levels influence users, this conceptual paper makes use of Neuromarketing as a tool to measure the level of attention that results from advertisement exposure and explores how different levels of attention influence users in conscious and unconscious ways.

Ana Lia Alves   

Research and literature about internet and technology addiction has generated a great deal of attention in the past two decades. However, most studies in this literature focus on the relationships between internet addiction with social, educational, and physical variables but not many addressing the link with emotional variables such as anxiety. With the increase adoption of mobile technologies and the increase of multiple device usage, there is a need to understand how multiscreen dependence influences these emotional variables. This paper uses an exploratory methodology that included a focus group and semi-structure interviews to explore these relationships and provide a better understanding of the multiscreen usage effect on consumer sentiment and dependence behaviour.

Chanin Amornbuth   

Data warehousing is a result of business needs and technological advances. This study will investigate the extent to which DW quality relates to perceived net benefit and decision quality. This paper hopes to identify the strength of the relationships of the quality data warehouse to enhancing decision quality in the enterprise. The results showed that impact on decision quality eventually have some perceived net benefits from the use the warehouse. Moreover, it should add to the body knowledge on data warehouse.

Nguyen Cong Hoan   

Phu Quoc is an island district of Kien Giang province in the south of VietNam. Phu Quoc island district is far from Rach Gia city about 120 km and Ha Tien town about 45km. Phu Quoc district has got 22 large and small islands, with an area of 593.05 km2, and have 99 hills from the North to South of island, 13 beautiful beaches, the forest accounts for 63.74% of the area of Phu Quoc island. It is considered to have the potential to develop unique tourism resources in both the human and natural resources. It is endowed with four sides sea surrounded with hills, rivers, streams, waterfalls and mountains with primeval forests, wetlands, beautiful beaches. The district of Phu Quoc island has got the hundreds of islets bobbing at sea windy. Visitors travel to the tourism homestay in the village of pearl farming, fish sauce village, planting pepper village, Sim's wine producers, 
attending the MICE, events, festival; visiting Phu Quoc's prion, Cau Temples; Phu Quoc Natural Park forest, Phu Quoc waterfall, Tranh stream, ecotourism island; buying some souvenirs; eating and driking foods and beverages; and staying in one to five stars resorts and hotels. Destination management is the co-ordinated management of all the elements that make up a destination (attractions, amenities, access, marketing and pricing). Therefore, developing tourism Destination management of Phu Quoc district in a sustainable way means restructuring the economy, create jobs and contribute to poverty reduction and improved livelihoods families. It would have become specific destination's tourist management at present and future.

Alexandre Lapersonne   Nitin Sanghavi   and Claudio De Mattos   

Hybrid strategy, which emerged as a contingency option to Porter's generic strategies framework [1], defends that in a dynamic environment the simultaneous pursuit of "Low Cost" and "Differentiation" approaches is fundamental for the short-term performance and long-term survival of the firm. A vast amount of literature supports the benefits of adopting a mixed approach of strategy: several empirical studies have proved that a hybrid strategy establishes a firm's performance superiority over the pure strategy choice. The hybrid literature has concentrated on the performance linkage and on the debate countering the pure strategy approach, however very little attention has been paid to the challenges presented by the mixed strategy implementation. In fact, despite the rich empirical literature, it is still not clear how firms that adopt a hybrid strategy may successfully integrate the inherent contradiction of the "Low Cost" and "Differentiation" approaches, escaping from the "Stuck in The Middle" outcome. Consequently, after a careful consultation of the relevant literature, we conclude that several types of hybrid strategy implementation, which should correspond to different business environmental situations, exist. In order to study the characteristics of these different types of hybrid strategies implementations, we propose a typology comprising four types of hybrid strategy implementation, defined by two antecedents of the firm and two antecedents of the environment. As a contribution of this article, the proposed typology has the purpose to fill a methodological gap regarding the adoption of Hybrid strategies and we expect that it could be used as a framework for further studies, aiming to suggest managerial implications and further unveil characteristics of the hybrid implementation. Additionally, we align and contrast the hybrid and ambidextrous approaches, which share many similarities. Despite the fact that they have been confounded in empirical studies, we concluded that hybridity and ambidexterity are distinct and complementary concepts: while hybrid strategy defines the value proposition of the firm (a composition of "Low Cost" and "Differentiation"), ambidexterity focus on how to deliver this value with efficiency (Exploitation) and how to renew it effectively (Exploration).

Shang-Ping Lin   Yin-Ying Wang   Wen-Ling Hsu   and Ching-Han Fang   

Job engagement is a key issue that deserves attention within the framework of emotional labor. This is due to its role in increasing employee happiness and productivity. Past literature rarely examined the relationship between emotional labor and job engagement, which composes the major research purpose of this study. The result shows that positive emotional expression, faking negative emotions and dealing with other negative emotions was positively associated with job engagement. Happiness, aggravation, sadness, inferiority have mediating effects towards the relationship between positive emotional expression and job engagement, but the anxiety was not significant. Finally, few researches have been conducted in the past to examine the relationship between emotional labor and job engagement. Therefore, the hypothesis is a general in terms of reference inference, and might not focus on only the relationship between the two factors. Supporting evidence in terms of literature and research material should be further supplemented in the future, in order to construct a more solid theoretical framework.

Sebastian Henao   Syed Adeel Ahmed   and Mia Thornton   

In many manufacturing settings, companies have implemented quality management system standards to ensure they meet the needs of customers. An example of a system that has been globally adopted is ISO 9001. This proactive system is abided by in an organization to maintain customer satisfaction and continuous improvement. In addition to quality, manufacturers have an obligation to care for the safety of their employees and customers. Similarly to quality, safety in the workplace should be a proactive movement. By integrating safety with quality systems, it becomes a manager's responsibility. With integration, there is an emphasis placed on conformance through management review.

Dimitrios Kavallieros   Stefanos Malliaros   Ioannis Daniilidis   George Leventakis   and Vasileios Grizis   

Public safety organizations include emergency and law enforcement agencies, fire departments, rescue squads, and Emergency Medical Services (EMS). In response to increasing threats of terrorism and natural disasters, safety and security personnel must overcome technology barriers to enhance their efficiency, especially in the neuralgic section of information exchange. Limited availability of information hinders the response time and decision making process. Efficient communications supported by interoperable technology are vital to the situational awareness, scalability, and effectiveness of incident response. This paper's prime objective is the review of available information systems than can be used to support and assist security agencies.

Jung-Wen Hsia   and Ai-Hua Tseng   

Due to the rapid development of information technology and global economic competition, high-tech companies face more fierce competitive pressure. If a corporation wants to better compete against his competitors, it would need many highly-qualified workforce to devote all their efforts and resources to solve difficult problems and to achieve organizational goals. Most excellent high-tech companies have devoted many resources to retain qualified and competent employees and to motivate them to increase their performance. However, many high-qualified employees often quit their jobs and then work for other companies. Therefore, it is critical to better understand the important factors influencing employees' organizational commitment, job involvement, and organizational citizenship behavior. According to literature review and interviews with 5 HR managers, the study applied different theories and empirically investigated on the factors that affect organizational commitment, job involvement, and organizational citizenship behavior by integrating locus of control, work enthusiasm, and leader-member exchange into the theoretical model. Data were collected from 201 employees at 6 high-tech companies located in the Hsinchu Science Park, Taiwan. The partial least squares approach was used to evaluate the explanatory power and causal links of the model. Analytical results indicate that leader-member exchange had a significant effect on organizational commitment and job involvement. Work enthusiasm had a direct effect on organizational commitment and job involvement. Locus of control had a direct effect on organizational commitment. Further, organizational commitment and job involvement both influence organizational citizenship behavior. The future research and practical implications of the findings are discussed.

Tabassom Hashemi Farzad   and Horst Junker   

The businesses have a critical role in moving the society toward sustainability. The fast changing and dynamic global business environment requires firms to be more flexible to quickly adapt and respond to market changes. Among the forces that drive changes, requirements for corporate responsibility and sustainability are getting more urgent. During such difficult time as this economic downturn, companies are faced with hard choices to survive. Research has acknowledged that addressing sustainability issues is critical to the long-term existence and thriving of companies. The concept of sustainability makes it necessary that besides the economic categories and the operational environment protection, it should be considered the social effects of company in management actions. Sustainability business oriented can be realized through developing a corporate target pyramid in enterprise. Such pyramid will help organizations to shape their targets in accepting social, environmental and economic responsibilities. The current research tries to review the research background done till now and depict a perspective of an integrated target pyramid for both scholars and managers. Furthermore, this paper has a holistic look toward the concept of sustainable information system.

Steve Chen   Aaron Willoughby   Kenneth Henderson   and Shannon Callihan   

Interscholastic athletic programs must avoid gender-based budgetary inequity lawsuits to ensure their successful operation. Potential problem areas are the methods used to generate athletic funds, female sports funding and the maintenance of Title IX compliance. Eighty-two interscholastic athletic directors from eastern Kentucky region shared their perceptions concerning these potential problem areas. They completed an online survey based on past literature [1, 2, 3] addressing themes concerning effective strategies for generating athletic funds and maintaining equitable athletic budgets for both gender sports. The results indicated that participants adopted both direct sales (food, apparels, and tangible product items) and indirect sales (advertising spaces, conducting camps, and offering services) to generate revenues for their athletic programs. They had adopted the popular fundraising methods which were commonly suggested by past literature. In general, participants also agreed that female students should receive necessary financial support and opportunity to accommodate their participatory need. It is suggested that keeping an accurate Title IX report is the key to ensure a high level of Title IX compliance. Potentially the most controversial finding is that participants prefer to keep the majority of funds for football and men's basketball.

Hui-Chen Lee   and Mei-Fang Chen   

The purpose of the study was to explore the perspectives of athletes who participated in the National University Sport Games in Taiwan regarding to the service quality with 308 valid subjects. Importance-performance analysis was used to discover the service quality; the questionnaire was formed to understand the needs and feelings of participants, in order to help managers to provide better service quality. The result of the study was indicated that thirteen items, those were both high in importance and performance, in which must keep; in the meanwhile, there were four questions in high importance and low in performance, in which must be in the first priority to improve to enhance service quality and increase participants' satisfaction. According to the result, managerial recommendations were discussed and suggestion for further researches also mentioned.

Washington Luiz Pereira Soares   and Eliane Maria Octaviano Martins   

The sustainable management of multimodality depends on public policies which in Brazil are not associated with environmental legislation to practices in transport. The lack of infrastructure interorganizational between ministries prevents efficacy by Ministry of Environment to discover one right way for public benefits on developing container transportation by railway model.

James McKee   

This paper responds to the apparent contradiction between where the importance of the business model in shaping success is emphasised, "great business models can reshape industries and drive spectacular growth" [1] and the fact that many organisations either do not have a useful model or do not bring their model up to date when necessary. Problems with developing a business model will be discussed and whether model complexity may contribute to the lack of motivation in redeveloping it when required. Organization analysis has been described in many papers and books and these analyses describe the essential components of the organisation but also provide a great deal of detail which may make the business model overly complex. It is therefore sensible to separate the information that is more stable over time concerning the structure of the organisation, from the truly dynamic information affecting how the organisation perceives its approach to product and customer. This paper will suggest a systematic organisation of information to contain the more stable elements of the organisation analysis and will describe how this can provide support for a business model and make its development easier. This will also allow the model to be redeveloped as required to meet changing circumstances and therefore better able to drive business success.

Kestutis Peleckis   and Valentina Peleckiene   

When strategically planning negotiating speech it is desired to avoid coincidences and to choose the most appropriate means to achieve its objective. Implementation of the strategic orientations is associated with each aspect of the language. Negotiating, in other words, it is a public speaking in the negotiations, is a strategic process, which includes an understanding of the circumstances, the deliberate behavior and a plan how to achieve your goals. During the time of negotiating the negotiators together are creating a commonly significant thing, their thoughts, opinions, attitudes and values are tested, adapted, developed through interaction. Negotiators approaches of different cultures can vary significantly. For one negotiator some things and facts may be more important or more significant than for others, and his attitude towards them will determine how he will interpret and understand the statements which he have heard. The paper deals with the problems of rhetorical effect to other side of the negotiations. It is argued that a persuasive speech is very important competence of negotiator, as nothing can change negotiator's alive speech. Only directly negotiating, giving evidence, arguments, counter-arguments, controversy negotiators can move quickly to the overall objective of the agreement. Even with a well-developed modern means of communication, the Internet, electronic negotiation support systems, negotiators are moving to another part of the world for direct negotiations. Negotiator in alive bargaining process demonstrates himself, his appearance, mind, manners, emotions, ethics, etiquette knowledge, characteristics of voice, gestures, movements, facial expressions, reactions and their other communication options. The use of rhetorical tools in bargaining process, the success of staying in contact with the other half of the negotiations is an important factor for effective negotiations. If classical rhetoric focused attention on how to convince the other part, in modern rhetoric, focus is focused more to dialogue, to interaction between speakers, and harmonization of relations.

Chao-Hua Li   Kun-Shan Su   and Shu-Fen Liu   

Communities of Practices (CoPs) become building blocks of the knowledge economy. CoPs offer a productive solution for improving knowledge and knowledge management. This article presents the results of an empirical study that explored the impact of leadership on overall community effectiveness and knowledge creation and management. The research method employed was a multi-case study, with purposive sampling on two communities of Radiology and Anesthesia in a nonprofit healthcare organization of Taiwan. A total of 24 semi-structured interviews were taken with longitudinal non-participant observation of the routine meetings over a period of one year. The research revealed that two communities develop different leadership styles. In particular, two leadership styles are compared: shared leadership and single leadership. Shared leadership represents communities whose members are empowered to share the tasks and responsibilities of leadership. The results of the study suggest that CoP with shared leadership can nurture CoP to promote innovative learning and knowledge-sharing environment. First, shared leadership is capable of building a social setting for utilizing and articulating individuals and groups' embedded knowledge. Second, shared leadership can work together on setting learning support system entailing various types of meeting, such as regular meeting, morning meeting, and monthly meeting, make environmental influence on individual' motivation to engage in CoPs. Third, the sharing norms purposely developed by leadership overcome the power differences among members and provide chances for constructive interactions. On the other hand, a CoP that took the traditional approach of relying on a single leader has poor performance on the cohesiveness and ability to communicate. The article concludes with a discussion of some guidance for purposeful design of CoPs, implications, and future research opportunities.

Hidetaka Ichikawa   

CO₂ reduction has become a global initiative. Hybrid and electric vehicles (EVs) will not only reduce the use of gasoline, but also significantly contribute to the reduction of CO₂. Next-generation vehicles that run on electricity and fuel cells that continue reducing the environmental load are required for the future. However, the spread of these next-generation vehicles has failed to proceed easily. Hybrid vehicles utilize both gasoline and electricity as a power source, electric vehicles run on battery power and fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) use hydrogen. Charging facilities are required to utilize electric vehicles and fuel cell vehicles. Compared to gasoline vehicles, there are four factors that hinder the spread of next-generation vehicles, 1. High selling price, 2. Lack of charging facilities, 3. Long charging time, 4. Shortage of cruising distance. FCVs include 1. and 2. In order to reduce the high selling price, there is no choice but to rely on product innovation by automobile manufacturers. For the lack of charging facilities, it will be a problem that cannot be solved by only the automotive manufacturers, the cooperation of national and local governments is required. Without the overall improvement of infrastructure, the stagnation of next-generation vehicles ales will continue. To reverse this trend, new social infrastructure systems and lifestyles changes are needed to stimulate the purchasing willingness of consumers. In this paper, we discuss the dissemination activities Kagoshima Prefecture has been conducted in Yakushima. This research thus proposes the creation of new social infrastructure system as well as a new lifestyle changes using Yakushima Island as an example which we believe can increase the spread of next-generation vehicles.

Manodip Ray Chaudhuri   Juha Kettunen   and Partha Naskar   

The surfacing of the concept of leadership dates back to the ancient days of war and inhabitation. Over time, leadership evolved to accomplish goals. The guiding thoughts of a mission and vision are the essence of new millennium leadership. The modern business companies aim for continuous identification and understanding about the wide array of the global perspectives of leadership. This paper discusses organisational leadership, leaders' traits and habits; leadership competencies to manage workplace crises; transformational and servant leadership; the importance of towards transformational leadership; and the unification of leadership and business culture. The paper concludes with an appeal for global leadership that builds sustainability in an ever-changing global business environment.

Albert C. Mellam   Pulapa Subba Rao   and Benedicta T. Mellam   

Employee performance is the outcome of the influence of various factors including human resource management (HRM) practices. Globalisation and information technology resulted in emergence and modern practices of HRM that are different in approach of the erstwhile HRM practices which are termed as traditional HRM Practices. Modern HRM practices are expected to produce higher employee performance scores compared to that of traditional HRM practices. Review of the existing literature on the theme of the study indicates that there are no studies covering the effects of traditional and modern HRM practices on employee performance. Therefore, the present study is expected to contribute towards plugging this gap. The purpose of this study is to ascertain the impact of modern human resource management practices on employee performance compared to that of traditional human resource management practices. Data used for this study were collected from primary sources using a questionnaire. This paper analyses the impact of traditional HRM and modern HRM practices in employee performance in business organisations in Papua New Guinea employing statistical tools like descriptive data analysis, correlation and regression analysis. SOEs mostly followed traditional HRM practices and PEs followed modern HRM practice mostly due to their organisational structures, and history of their origins. Results of the study indicate that many of the traditional HRM practices resulted in the low employee performance in SOEs whilst modern HRM practices resulted in high employee performance in PEs. It is therefore suggested that SOEs may take the advantage of high employee performance by restructuring their organisations that allow them to follow modern HRM practices.

Robert Janik   

This article reviews the appearance of ecological and social costs of economic development within the globalization process for illustrating their influence on European management especially focusing on ecology. The article concludes that the process of European unification is successful in many areas but also faces a lot of problems and challenges. To the very important ones belong the social inequalities, unemployment and the destruction of nature. Thanks to the development of science and technology the creation of new economical activities in Europe is possible. They can help to create new possibilities for both, the solving of the ecological problems and to create jobs in many sectors of economy. The contemporary management should play a very important role in this process. Europe as one of the first continents which started the dynamic process of industrialization and destroying of nature can also be the first one to unite the contemporary economy with pro-economical activities. This would allow to connect the solving of social and ecological problems.

Juan Franco   Faiza Mahdi   and Hussein Abaza   

Building information modeling (BIM) is changing how buildings, infrastructures, and utilities are planned, designed, built, and managed. Though very popular for collaboration and coordination in structural, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical trades in multi-family projects, this study shows that BIM is rarely used for estimating and scheduling due to the cost and time it takes to complete the BIM model. However, BIM is providing broad benefits and becoming an essential construction document component for large projects. The objective of this study is to identify the major barriers to using BIM for a project's estimating and scheduling. Personal interviews and electronic questionnaires for 30 companies were used to answer the research objectives. The study focused on how sub-contractors are currently using BIM for estimating and scheduling. The study provides recommendations on using BIM for estimating. In addition, the paper presents a case study for using light gauge metal framing add on to BIM software for estimating and shop drawing, thereby incentivizing contractors to challenge the existing barriers to use BIM more efficiently. The research showed that less than 7% of multi-family contractors use BIM in their projects and less than 3% use it for estimating. The case study showed that using BIM for framing and drywall estimating in multi-family residential construction or similar projects can be practical if a basic BIM model is provided to subcontractors.

A. I. Timofeev   

The last years much attention is paid to Systems Thinking including international special conferences [1] which presented innovative papers on the theory and its application – Technical Thinking Systems including also a variety of “smart” systems, for example, "smart " cities of future, “smart” homes, “smart” streets and “smart” apartments, “smart” eyes, and “intelligent” hands and so on, discussed the roles of these systems in natural and extreme conditions, computer science, pedagogy, the specific requirements for citizens of future smart cities, the problems of variety of simulations of Systems Thinking. The main feature of the example of the Thinking Systems is the presence of feedback by simulation of physical situations in the system “Brush-Object” (B-O) of manipulation robotics - as the result of simulation of spatial sense of touch of human hand at semantic level. Cardinal decision of actual and unsolved Problem of manipulation robotics– capture reliability of non-oriented complex shape objects – is based on application of semiotic structure of relations of contact points as the symbiosis of informatiology, discovering geometrical multi-agent foreshortening of unknown initial situation, and semiotics, discovering semantic component of information. The application of methods and principles of Thinking Systems in robotics can stimulate widespread use of manipulation robotics in previously inaccessible areas of employment rights.

Maria L. Nathan   

This paper will explore strategic thinking as a threshold concept and key integrative framework within the management discipline. Threshold-concept primed applications with which to enhance both the teaching and learning of this concept will then be offered as means to also facilitate transfer of learning to other contexts, including the workplace setting. The theory of threshold concepts [cf: 1, 44], actionable and rich in explanatory merit, underpins this research and ultimately gives definition to a highly strategic approach to teaching strategic thinking.

Li-mei Hung   and Yueh-shian Lee   

As people's standard of living has increased, tourism's is taking a greater share in peoples' consumption. The tourism market continues to expand; however, customers' complaints became more frequent, travel agencies and tourists had more disputes, and there have been increased service failures of travel agencies. Therefore, how to reduce customers switching intention became one of the critical issues. This study investigates the effect of service failures on customers switching intention and personality traits. The results showed that travel agencies notify customers reservation cannot be made due to insufficient number of participants before departure have no effect on the customer switching intention. Service failure on the journey about important attractions unable to visit or must cancel the attractions journey or tour guide provides poor service effect on the customer switching intention.

Isabela Paes   Geraldine Guerillot   Jean-Luc Moriceau   and Julien Billion   

Traditionally, as well as in pop culture, entrepreneurship is conceived of as opposed to salary-earning, and decision from being a salaried employee to entrepreneur as a great leap. However, entrepreneurship studies and new employment forms blur this border between two worlds and the plunging from one world to the other. A study is conducted on employees working at this frontier: French umbrella professionals (salariés portés), inquiring qualitatively about their conception of entrepreneurship, their experience of crossing and of their new condition, as well as their aspirations, fears and values. No leap in activity was found, but there was the feeling of having shifted to another mental universe. The respondents had all the feeling of being entrepreneurs without creating new products, markets or business ventures. They enjoy their full engagement in their work and experience a different relation to time. Considering themselves as entrepreneurs grants them with a desirable social status, but underscores their risky position and an increased portion of their life to be devoted to work. This study aims at providing guidance for public policies fostering employment through entrepreneurship and for workers considering such a working hybrid status. It also puts into perspective the classical contours of entrepreneurship and salaried positions and call for closer examination of the new forms of employment.

Ta-Chung Chu   

This paper suggests a fuzzy MCDM (multiple criteria decision-making) approach, where ratings of alternatives versus criteria and weights of criteria are assessed in fuzzy numbers or linguistic values represented by fuzzy numbers. Criteria are classified into cost and benefit ones. In the proposed method, the ratings assigned by decision makers to each alternative versus each criterion and the weights assigned by decision makers to each criterion are averaged. The averaged cost and benefit ratings are further normalized into comparable scales respectively. The membership function of subtracting the summation of weighted normalized benefit ratings from that of weighted normalized cost ratings for each alternative can be developed by interval arithmetic of fuzzy numbers. The fuzzy number ranking method of centroid is then applied to determine the ordering of the alternatives. A numerical example of robot selection demonstrates feasibility of the proposed method.

Hasan Hamouda   and Nadine Abu-Shaaban   

Construction sector plays a leading role in economic growth for countries all around the world. Since construction is a labour intensive industry, productivity is considered a primary driving force for economic development. In the Gaza Strip, the economy is severely challenged by the combined effects of rapid population growth and the closure policy imposed on the area since 2007. Owing to this situation, construction projects are characterized by low profit margin, time and cost overrun making labour productivity a key component of company's success and competitiveness. Although, labour productivity has been subject of study by many researchers, a deeper understanding is still required to improve labour productivity. The main aim of this study is to identify key factors affecting labour productivity in the Gaza Strip. It also aims at formulating a labour productivity baseline model using the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP). By reviewing the literature and conducting depth interviews with experienced engineers, thirty critical factors related to labour productivity were identified and categorized into six groups: psychological, experience, supervision and leadership, physical, time and workload, and external factors. Based on the Analytical Hierarchy Process approach, a questionnaire was designed and delivered to sixty contractors to elicit the view on how labour productivity might be affected. A total of 56 feedbacks were analyzed through the AHP. The results indicated that Job satisfaction& security, lack of incentive scheme, skill& experience, drug use, overtime and weather changes have a significant impact on labour productivity in GS. In addition, the developed AHP model provides a framework that can assist managers in evaluating multiple factors and hence effectively improve labour productivity.

Anwar Prabu Mangkunegara   and Tinton Rumbungan Octorend   

This study analyzed the influence of Work Discipline, Work Motivation and Job Satisfaction on Organizational Commitment employees in staffing levels. Object of this study is the level of staff employees at PT. Dada Indonesia. The research problem refers to the phenomenon of the data on the PT. DADA INDONESIA, which indicated the level of absenteeism or employee absenteeism average - average to reach 4-5 percent. The problem that arises is: how to improve employee Organizational Commitment. A modeling has been constructed and 4 (four) research hypotheses have been formulated. This researched used Proportional Random Sampling. The study used 148 respondents and the overall level of staff respondents were employees of PT. Dada Indonesia. The results of this study show them that Work Discipline has positive effect on Organizational Commitment. Work Motivation has positive effect on Organizational Commitment. Job satisfaction has positive influence on Organizational Commitment. Work discipline, work motivation and job satisfaction has positive influence on Organizational Commitment.

Suthet Chandrucka   Nuttiya Tantranont   and Manat Suwan   

The purposes of this research were to study the potential of a local community in producing organic crops and to develop patterns of green management. The instruments employed for data collection included field surveys, in-depth interviews, questionnaires, observations, focus group discussions and a community seminar at Mae-Rim District, Chiang Mai Province, Thailand. The results were that the community had the potential to produce organic plants, as it situates mostly on a flatland by the mountain, with fertile soil abundantly filled with minerals and nutrients. In terms of social dimension, people in the community had three sets of knowledge, namely, organic plantation management, economic community, and the new Theory of Sufficiency Economy. Integrating with their economic and marketing network, they consequently formulated the SALUANG Model which illustrates knowledge and experience sharing of all stakeholders in the agricultural management, transparency of the management that allows everyone to be aware of the original sources and all the process that meet quality and safety standards, integration of local wisdom with modern knowledge that emphasizes in environmentally friendly toxin-free agriculture and participatory resources conservation, understanding of customer needs, accessibility to the knowledge body by focusing at information exchange among members and with outsiders, establishment of a collaborative network comprising farmers who favor green agriculture, good governance, and well-being of the community.

Pulapa Subba Rao   Albert C. Mellam   and Ponnusamy Manohar   

An appropriate organisational structure that fits into the strategy enables the leaders and followers in enhancing their performances and thereby improving organisational performance. Studies are rare to find in the area of contribution of organisational structure to leaders and followers performance. Therefore, the present study is necessary. Data used for this study were collected from primary and secondary sources. A questionnaire was developed and administered together with interviews conducted. The 'T' test (t-value) and co- efficient of correlation (r - value) were employed in this study. This paper presents a comparative analysis of impact of organisational structure on leaders and followers' performance using three factors viz., bureaucratic structure based, organic structure based and hybrid structure based and performance and satisfaction levels of followers and leaders. Data analysis indicates that the type of organisational structure impacts employee performance in terms of decision-making and implementation; control the process of operations implementation and building relationships and ultimately achievement of organisational goals. The analysis indicates that organic structure results in positive and high employee performance compared to the remaining two types of organisational structures. Therefore, it is suggested that business organisations should consider structuring their organisations around the characteristics of organic structure, unless otherwise the business environment is recessionary.

Hong Gong   Wenxiao Sun   and Yan Luo   

Currently, the rapid population aging has posed a series of challenges for economic and social development in China. Facing with these problems, the Chinese government planned to formulate policies to progressive delay the retirement age, and regarded the "positive response to population aging" as one of the long-term development strategy. But in reality, with China's per capita life expectancy and human capital cycle "double extended", "old before getting rich" makes re-employment of the elderly population become very urgent. Based on China's current rapid population aging, this paper analyzed the current situation of China's re-employment of the elderly population, and proposed some effective countermeasures to support elderly re-employment.

Jen-Son Cheng   and Chia-Wei Liu   

This study examined the typology of service innovation in the food and beverage industry. Several approaches, including secondary data collection and grounded-theory-based analysis, were used to analyze approximately 32 innovative cases of 16 enterprises in the industry in Taiwan. According to these results, service innovation was divided into two categories, namely service concepts and service regimes, comprising five subcategories. Moreover, value cocreation was identified because few enterprises promote customer participation in final consumption processes. The findings of this study can serve as valuable references for service innovation researchers and business owners.

Yeong-Gyeong Choi   and Kyoung-Seok Kim   

This study, literature review research, intends to deal with the problem of conceptual ambiguity among research on emotional labor, and to look into the evolutionary trends and changing aspects of defining the concept of emotional labor. For this, it gropes for methods for reducing conceptual ambiguity. Further, it arranges the concept of emotional labor; and examines and reviews comparatively the currents of the existing studies and looks for the characteristics and correlations of their classification criteria. That is, this study intends to arrange systematically and examine theories on emotional labor suggested hitherto, and suggest a future direction of research on emotional labor on the basis thereof. In addition, it attempts to look for positive aspects of the results of emotional labor.

Jozef Stasak   Radka Vanickova   and Michal Grell   

This paper deals with problems related to Business Process Modeling Linguistic Approach – Problems of Business Strategy Design. The main goal of that paper is to prepare a proposal closely related to business strategy design in form of text written in a natural language and in form of linguistic sets, which contain appropriate linguistic variables regulated by rules of business process ontology principles and linguistic approach of business process modeling. A description of problems related to Balanced Scorecard (BSC) Business Strategy Design and to business process management and modeling – linguistic approach creates the paper's first part, while The Principle Business Process Linguistic Equation - PBPL Equation existence – together with assumptions, terms and principles related to its existence and functionality play a role of great importance there. Answering the question: how the principle business process linguistic equation may be applied in solution of business strategy design and business process management problems - business process ontology aspects?" It is a subject of the paper's second part. However, the problems of related works and contributions of the paper's content are considered to be the paper's final chapters as well.

Marchian Giovanna   

1-. Introduction and demarcation of the inquiry on SGEIs; 2-. The notion of services of general economic interest and its relation to public economic service in the Italian system; 3-. The progressive definition of minimum competition rules for SGEIs: comparative profiles between national regulation and Europe inspired principles; 4-. SGEIs: competitiveness, proportionality and balance within the framework of EU principles. 5-. National regulations on local public services of economic interest: the difficult implementation of EU principles in Italy; 6-. Management models: from the bureaucratic model to the functional model

Yu-Chen Chen   Rong-An Shang   Chun-Yu Shu   and Chung-Kuang Lin   

By assuming that group buying websites offer consumers an opportunity to gain consumption value from experiential products with potential risks, a theoretical model was proposed to explore the factors affecting buyers' purchase intentions. In this model, trust, price consciousness and conformity behavior were viewed as antecedents of risks. A study of 164 responses found that the purchase intention was induced primarily by hedonic value; while at the same time, perceived risks will decrease the subjects' purchase intention, and trust is the only one that can effectively reduce the risks. The results indicate that whether to purchase in group buying website or in brick-mortar stores is actually a trade-off between the perceptions of values gained and risks exposed; and trust plays a pivotal role in reducing risk, leading to stronger purchase intention. Finally, academic and managerial implications are offered.

Shahid Iqbal   and Maria Khan   

This study emphasized the results carried out on a sample of twenty Higher Education Commission (HEC) accredited universities in Pakistan, the prime purpose of which was to surface major constituents for the need of environmental standards in universities. EMS ISO 14001:2004 processes in overt and covert dynamics for their internationalization and the result being the less awareness level amongst various stakeholders about such processes and their resulting benefits. It aims in general, to decipher the viability and advantages of shifting to an environmental system ,the standards maintained by universities in relation to environment safety, and in particular the case study of a Pakistani , leading degree awarding university ,that showed interest in internalization by adopting EMS System. As a general process these standardizations are still in an early developing stage. The study thus indicates that minimal time duration of 8 to 20 months in order to acquire EMS certifications, and document controls. A case study in this research is of CIIT Pakistan and its struggle for obtaining international standardization including EMS. The methodology implied consisted of visits to relevant websites, questionnaires' and surveys conducted across 60 Pakistani leading universities. The study thus, resonates on two distinct levels of analysis: the benefits of adopting EMS by universities in general and the limitations of adopting EMS by Pakistani universities in particular, leading to performance changes resulting from implementation of such international standards and making their existence in international knowledge economic market of the world.

S. Çağrı ƞengĂŒl   A. Orçun Sakarya   H. Volkan Kaya   and Z. Ezgi Kahraman   

Currently, to keep the competitive edge, firms focus on the improvement of the decision making and use different management information systems to leverage the process. In this study, it has been designed an information system which aims to support the management of human resources in the small and medium sized enterprises in Turkey. To do this, a group of human resource key point indicators have been determined for a system design which includes Mysql- and Java-based Hibernate Criteria Api, search algorithm, relational database, JSF(java server faces) Framework and Primefaces structures as methodology. It has been demonstrated by sample user interface snapshots and analysis of the system benefits that the system would serve decision makers in a number of areas including training, performance, efficiency, workforce and working time supported by its user friendly characteristics such as; real time analysis, decision making opportunities and flexibility of accessibility it offers to small and medium sized enterprises.

Joanne Roch   and Johanne Boucher   

The increased complexity and velocity of change necessarily involves developing capacities for adaptation. In order to do so, the organization needs to learn how to modify and reinvent its dynamic capabilities (Helfat and Winter [1]). Yet few empirical studies can guide the application of this theoretical concept (Ambrosini et al. [2]) considered by some as an abstract notion (Danneels [3]), even "an elusive black box" (Pavlou and El Sawy [4]). Starting from these observations, our article aims at providing a response to this limitation by attempting to grasp the actionable aspect of this concept. It aims at better understanding the process of building dynamic capabilities. It underscores the contribution of operational capabilities and the importance of deliberate learning initiatives in building dynamic capabilities and brings out the crucial role of reflective activities in organizational innovation.

Moh Gudono   and Lina Anatan   

The objective of this study is to examine the financial performance of state-owned and non state-owned enterprises that were sold to foreign investors, i.e. International acquisitions, in the years 2000-2010. This research is driven by a number of controversies over the sale of Indonesian state enterprises to foreign investors that allegedly have been done under the pressure of IMF and that were suspiciously priced below the companies real market values. Many people oppose the sale because these companies carried Indonesia government bonds that were given as liquidity bailed-out during the years of crisis between the year of 1998 and 2000. Performance comparison could show whether the sale to foreign investors brought economic benefits as expected. To measure the performance of cross border acquisition this research used both accounting data and capital markets based measures. Samples were matched according to characteristics of companies being analyzed: financial (banks) institutions vs. non-financial companies and pure private vs. state-owned companies. The purposive sampling method was applied. Financial ratios and cumulative abnormal returns of fifteen acquired companies between the years 2000-2010 were examined. The final sample consists of sixty firm-year data. The results indicate that, as hypothesized, there is no performance improvement on state-owned banks acquired by foreign investors. On the other hand, state-non bank companies show significantly different improvement in performance compared to private banks and private-non bank performance. In general, these studies support the notion that politics may play role on the sale of state-owned bank after crisis period (2000-2010). Further investigation is needed to elaborate the findings.

Livingstone Caesar   and Stephen Cahoon   

The traditional approach used by MET institutes to admit students who are trained to become seafarers is increasingly becoming deficient in the face of the growing labour crisis within the global shipping industry. Further pressure is being placed on MET institutes to revise the modus operandi used to enroll students due to the dynamic nature of the seafaring labour landscape. Due to the limited knowledge MET institutes have about the students they admit, their expectations and career ambitions, it is difficult to effectively retain them onboard ships. This is because the lack of information on the career ambition of the students translates into poor management of their expectations. This paper discusses the need for MET institutes to employ psychological testing tools to gather adequate information about the students at the time of admission. This is necessary as it will help both the trainers of seafarers and shipping industry employers to adequately manage their expectations. When the expectations of students are not known, it consequently leads to a poor management of their career ambitions which then culminates in attrition from ships to landside jobs when they become seafarers. Thus MET institutes need to know the kind of people they are recruiting in order to effectively manage their expectations and this requires a thorough understanding of the reasons and factors influencing people to enter into seafaring.

Svitlana Kuznetsova   and Andriy Kuznetsov   

Information support model of management control is provided for building an integrated information system which collects detailed information about the state of the company on the strategic, tactical and operational levels of management and directions. Its construction is based on the concept of 4Ms and the pyramid of efficiency. The exact model designed for information support of management control has been formed by assessing 3 alternative models (conviction, cooperation and pragmatism) and selected on the basis of the strategy of the company, its specifics and existing features of the environment in which it functions. Taking into account the factors of instability in the formation of information support of management control for managerial decision-making it is reasonable to rely on such methods as adjustments, risk analysis and sensitivity analysis. Based on Arrow's impossibility theorem and the existing state of the management control systems regarding determination of groups of indicators, which will be monitoring effectiveness, it is expedient to introduce a dictatorial approach.

Nuria Alcalde   Manuel Espitia   and Nieves GarcĂ­a   

In the current work we consider the question of whether the differential benefits obtained by listed Spanish banks from their participation in alliances in the period 1996-1999 depend on the conditions under which these occur. From the results obtained we deduce that value generation is significantly greater when a bank announces an alliance with related partners, and in addition has an important previous experience in alliance management. However, the market reacts negatively to the announcement of agreements that use a relatively non-hierarchical governance structure in the presence of a high level of transaction complexity.

Yu-Je Lee   and Peng-Hsiang Kao   

This study is primarily intended to verify the effects of service quality on the customer loyalty using the customer satisfaction as a mediator. Focus on the population of Taiwan's Watsons Personal Care Stores, a total of 395, to adopt a Stratified Random Sampling for sampling with totally sending out 850 copies of mailed questionnaires with a receipt of 228 copies valid response questionnaires for a 26.82% effective response rate, and applying a Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to verify whether the goodness-of-fit of Overall Model, Structural Model and Measurement Model can be established in this study. The results have been found: (1) Making positive effects on the customer satisfaction; (2) Customer satisfaction making significant and positive effects on the customer loyalty; and (3) Excellent service quality making positive but not significant effects on the customer loyalty. Based on the results, the customer satisfaction has an approximately complete mediating effect. Additionally, the study results can not only provide businesses with the knowledge about the significance and generated benefits of service quality and customer satisfaction, but also make a reference for relevant business decision-making. Briefly, it is expected that the study results will provide businesses with effective applications of the service quality and customer satisfaction to enhance the customer loyalty increasing customers' repurchase intention.

JosĂ© Luis Fuentes-Bargues   MÂȘ Carmen GonzĂĄlez-Cruz   Cristina GonzĂĄlez-Gaya   and MÂȘ del Prado DĂ­az de Mera-SĂĄnchez   

The budget of a project reflects the cost of the investment needed to build an infrastructure, install a system or acquire new materials or supplies. A well-formulated budget in accordance with market prices, allows contractors to prepare offers according to their technical, economic and financial characteristics. On the other hand, it avoids current philosophies that aim to get the contract at any price. Philosophies subsequently used to point out problems and claims during the execution of the project (contradictory prices, delays, etc.) in order to recover some or the entire economic bid carried out during the tendering. In this paper a simple and fast methodology is developed to check if the tendering price is in accordance with market prices, so that the economic viability of the project is not at risk. The application of the methodology on a sample of projects allows us to check the influence of the type of project (civil or building) on the characteristics of the budget. It also allows us to point out the insufficient economic endowment of the projects as the start of the subsequent problems during the execution of the work.

Klaus Brockhoff   Maximilian Margolin   and Juergen Weber   

Patience is considered mostly as one-dimensional. In this view it reflects the willingness to defer consumption. This can be represented by a time discount rate. We suggest that patience has a broader, multi-dimensional meaning. This is in contrast to much of the literature. We have identified 19 items to measure patience. Only a small subset of these items is correlated with self-evaluations of patience, which in turn is correlated with the standard economics measure of time discount rate. Our result suggests that patience is indeed a multi-dimensional construct. This could be of interest in many fields, particularly when patience is considered as influencing commercial decisions.

Yui Yip Lau   

A shipping network is a form of collaboration in the shipping industry where players such as carriers, intermodal service providers, container management service providers, and container terminal operators share resources and assets to develop mutually beneficial strategies and seek operational performance gains. Because of the globalization and the intensified competition in the 21^st century, we suggest that the firms apply the concept of agility responding to change in proper ways and due time as well as exploiting changes and taking advantage of them as opportunities in the dynamic business environment. On the basis, we illustrate the key elements are desirable for the development and operation of horizontal and vertical shipping networks to leverage their inherent resources and enhance their capabilities respectively. Theoretical and practical implications of our research findings on the shipping networks development are also discussed in this study.

Yeong-Gyeong Choi   and Kyoung-Seok Kim   

This study, literature review research, intends to deal with the problem of conceptual ambiguity among research on emotional labor, and to look into the evolutionary trends and changing aspects of defining the concept of emotional labor. In addition, in existing studies, deep acting and surface acting are highly related to a positive outcome variable and a negative outcome variable, respectively. It was confirmed that for employees performing emotional labor, deep acting and surface acting are highly related to OCB and CWB, respectively. While positive emotion that employees come to experience during job performance process can easily trigger a positive non-task behavior such as OCB, negative emotion that employees experience through excessive workload or unfair treatment can easily induce a negative behavior like CWB. The two management behaviors of emotional labor, surface acting and deep acting, can have either a positive or negative effect on non-task behavior of employees, depending on which one they would choose. Thus, the purpose of this review paper is to clarify the relationship between emotional labor and non-task behavior more specifically.

Ewa Lisowska   

The purpose of the paper is to analyse statistical data concerning the gap between the remunerations of men and women in Poland. It also presents the situation in the Polish government administration based on the results of the survey carried out at the turn of 2011 and 2012. Especially the paper discusses the reasons of unequal remunerations identified in the literature on the subject, and gives the answer to the question if the human capital theory explains gender pay gap. In the paper it is presented available data as well as the empirical results on gender pay gap. The main conclusions are as following: (1) Women earn less than men irrespectively of the economy sector, profession, education, age, or size of the organisation; (2) The results of the survey indicate that the situation in the government administration in respect of the pay gap is slightly better than the average in Poland; (3) The human capital theory does not explain gender pay gap because it does not take into account that the choice of a woman is not truly free, as it is restricted by social habits and norms as well as stereotypes.

Najma Soomro   and Muhammad Arshad Haroon   

Investors always try to find the ways to beat the market. In recent years, one popular strategy among International investors involves a portfolio comprising of the ten highest yielding stocks selected from among the KSE all share index stocks in the Karachi Stock Exchange-KSE, (one of the most popular stock indices of the Pakistan). Such portfolio based on the Dow Dividend Strategy (DDS) came to be known as the 'Dogs of the Dow.' Portfolio of 'Dogs of the Dow' has been found to outperform the Dow on numerous occasions. The proposed study will extend the well documented Dogs of the Dow (Dow Dogs) strategy to Pakistan stock market. Purpose of this research is to compare the impact of DoD(KSE) portfolio performance with other developed and underdeveloped countries. The result shows that Pakistani Stock market faces the same external conditions like other developed and under developed countries. In conclusion, the Dogs of the Dow strategy can be a successful investment strategy in the Pakistani market but with some limitations.

Ameenah Musaed Aldosari   Mashael Mengash Alhajri   Nouf Khaled Almuzain   Abdulmuhsen Ayedh Alqahtani   and Sanad Abdullah Alajmi   

The goal of this study is to develop an instrument based on the 5Rs model for managing the anxiety that results from organizational change. The 5Rs are Recognizing, Researching, Reducing, Reconstructing anxiety, and Restructuring reality. The developed instrument (15 statements: 12 for organizational anxiety and 3 for organizational change) was tested on a randomly selected sample (n = 163) representing organizational leaders. Obtained data showed that that the content validity (the degree of agreement within a panel of experts) was acceptable, and the reliability coefficients for the organizational anxiety subscale and organizational change subscale were acceptable. Moreover, the regression analysis indicated that the organizational anxiety could significantly and uniquely predict the organizational change. Relevant recommendations are included.

Ibrahim Baba   

The transfer of political power from one civilian regime to another in West Africa have often been accompanied by violence promoted by desires of parties in power to consolidate their grips on power and by opposition parties interest to capture same by hook or crook in some other cases. The attitudes of the electorates of making themselves available to the politicians to be use in promoting elections and post-election violence itself is not helping the development of democracy and party politics in the west Africa. Conducted with the use of quantitative research methodology, this essay examines the relationship between political culture and democratic transition in West Africa. It examines the political behaviors and attitudes of people in the region towards transfer of political power from one to another civilian regime. Experiences gathered from such development in Nigeria were also examined in the study. The work also examines the need for attitudinal and paradigm shift in relations to democratic transition in West Africa and Nigeria in particular. What causes election and post-election violence, how are these violence sponsored and why should these conflicts be avoided are some of the major questions examined in this work. The work is also written with ideas drawn from the works of great comparative and behaviorists Political Scholars like Gabriel Almond, David Easton, Maurice Durverger, Graham Wallace, Author Bentley et al.

Amir Hossein Mohammad Davoudi   Shabnam Pajohesh   and Mohammad Javad Karamafrooz   

The present study performed to evaluate the shared-leadership model in knowledge creation teams among the faculty members of Kermanshah Razi University. This study performed as a descriptive-correlative one and it is an applied study in regard to research goal. The statistical society of study was including all faculty members of Razi University that totally was 360. For determine the sample volume based on Morgan’s table, 179 persons selected as study sample by a random relative-category method. The author made questionnaire used as data gathering tool in this study and it includes components such as self-leadership, team confidence, team commitment, shared-leadership and knowledge creation. The content reliability of this tool confirmed by experts and Cronbach’s alpha coefficient used to obtain the reliability coefficients of any component. The obtained coefficients were 0.77, 0.85, 0.76, 0.86 and 0.84 respectively. The regression analysis used for analyzing the information. The following results obtained. There is a positive relation between high levels of self-leadership and high levels of team confidence. There is a positive relation between high levels of team commitment and high levels of self-leadership. There is a positive relation between high levels of team confidence and high levels of shared-leadership. There is a positive and significant relation between high levels of team commitment and high levels of shared-leadership. And finally, there is a positive and significant relation between high levels of shared-leadership and high levels of knowledge creation.

Seyed Valiollah Mirhosseini   Seyed Mohsen Mirhosseini   and Ommekolsoum Haddadi   

Electronic city is a city where its citizens' affairs; including governmental services and private sector organizations are online and are doing their duties as boarding, seven days a week, high quality and safety By taking advantage of information and communication technology tools (ICT) and its usages. Overall the Smart City project means that all required services must provide to the citizens through the information networks; Thus there is no need for the citizens to travel to access governmental services and private institutions, in other words, Digital Offices are replaced by physical offices and Units and agencies such as municipalities, public transport and water display their services to their customers virtually. Nowadays, with the development of electronic technology and communication and emphasizes the problem of creating smart cities has created many jobs that meet their needs. Nowadays, development of electronic technology and communication and emphasizes on the creating of smart cities have been created many jobs that meet their needs. Developed countries have provided the possibility to governments to Transparent their activities, Especially in areas where have direct contact with the people, not only to reduce the violations resulting from the wrong administrative structure, but also to facilitate urban life and the availability of essential services to people. This paper aims at defining electronic city and its goals in the developing world. The aim of this paper is to identify electronic city and its principals in relation to each other.

Shahid Iqbal   

This study was based to assess trend of Pakistani universities towards internalization as compared to the successful models of USA, UK, Australia and Canada with particular efforts being made by COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Pakistan. The primary data of Pakistani universities, views and ideas of researchers were discussed and analysis about the realities to utilize the treasures of “knowledge based economic” opportunities. All such efforts were resulted due to reduction of government funds for the universities. The parameters of discussion and analysis were based on data collection from prominent Pakistani Universities as a primary source while secondary source was research based wherein researchers' experiences quoted and shared to assess the myth and realities for internationalization of international universities in certain regions of the world. The major findings were focused towards the induction of international students' success stories in universities of USA, UK, Canada, Australia and Malaysia. The universities of these countries earned profit and reduced the dependence government funds and achieved economic self-reliance breakthrough based on recruitment of International students in the past two decades. In south East Asia the Malaysian Universities has adopted these role models of successful countries and is now on the top position for recruiting international students. In Pakistani universities this trend is also flourishing very rapidly. The comparison of CIIT with other Pakistani universities especially in the area of international students' recruitment indicates that the International Islamic university (IIU) was at the top in Pakistan. It was concluded that CIIT Pakistan is moving on faster track towards internationalization of its academic and research programs and as a policy allocated huge number of scholarships for international students and also attained international ranking of QS 3 stars out of 5 in general terms and 5 out of 5 in academic, outreach and civic engagements and placed among 250 QS Top Asian Universities and at 4rth position in Pakistani general universities in view of national ranking of higher education commission in the year 2013. The other Pakistani universities have also excelled in research and academics and created ample environment for cross cultural adaptations and also moving towards internationalization like CIIT Pakistan.

Daina Vasilevska   

We live in an era when in many countries worldwide, including Latvia, the modern global developments have led to further establishment of new living standards and human capital formation appropriate for this particular time. The most fully human capital can be characterized as follows: it is the congenital, created as a result of investments and saved up certain level of health, education, skills, abilities, motivations, energy, cultural development as specific individual, group of people, and societies in general which are expediently used in this or that sphere of public reproduction, promote economic growth and influence the size of the income of their owner. The human capital, being part of the cumulative capital, represents a combination of the elements making it, i.e. has the internal structure. The goal of the research is to identify human capital resources which affect a person's ability to successfully integrate into the labor market. Research methods are the analysis and synthesis of scientific literature, logical and comparative analysis.

Marek Merhaut   

This paper reflects the results of a survey, conducted on a sample of approximately 100 employees of leading Czech hotels and international hotel chains in 2013. The inquiry was to analyze the role of ethics and code of ethics in the cultural policy of the hotel chains and tourism. Presented probe socio-cultural concerns in particular ethics of interpersonal relationships between workers of different nationalities, especially the Czech and foreign management staff, and then marginally etiquette rules as their reflection and individual expression. Author does not deny the fact that the rules of etiquette in the tourism and gastronomy, and that gradually changes between countries and cultures are significant differences that must be respected. But presents for discussion and reflection about their findings, as generally valid ethical principles and their instantiations in the rules adopted a code of ethics and respect in everyday practice hotel and hotel chain.

Malika Souaf   Youssef El Wazani   and Mohammed Mouadili   

The purpose of this paper is to identify how the integration of the human rights approaches in the projects management influences measuring performance of nonprofit organizations. This paper presents a case study of a network of nonprofit organizations operating throughout Morocco. Based on a qualitative approach, this study was conducted among 11 organizations, by using semi-structured interviews, questionnaires and focus groups. The results showed that the integration of the human rights approaches in the development of a new process of project management has a positive effect on the behavior of users, including managers and elected officials and also showed how the project results meet the goals and mission of nonprofit organizations. However, the study has also revealed the flipside of the medal expressed by the diversion of indicators, the complexity of projects evaluation using qualitative indicators and the perverse effects of measurement performance of nonprofit organizations. The results of this paper may serve as a roadmap for improved tools for evaluating projects based on the values of the organization and may guide the measurement performance of nonprofit organizations but must be conditioned by the specific context and priorities of stakeholder. The paper shows that measuring performance of nonprofit organizations comes back at first to evaluating the degree of integration of its values in their management system and the exercise of its vocation.

Anam Masood   and Rab Nawaz Lodhi   

This research is undertaken to explore the antecedents behind ineffective audits at government level. Government audits carry significant importance to make government entities accountable for utilization of funds for public welfare. In Pakistan, corruption and misappropriation of funds at government level is continuously destroying public trust and economic welfare. To rectify the situation, it is necessary to make audit effective. The data has been collected from fifteen government auditors of Pakistan through face to face in- depth interviews. The main themes in interviews were coded in QSR NVIVO 10 and presented through word tree maps, word tag cloud and Nvivo based conceptual model. Pearson correlation coefficients have been generated to determine the relationship between several antecedents and ineffective government audits. Pattern of talk concluded that massive corruption, conservative auditing methods, lack of cooperation from auditee, low morale of auditors, lack of financial independence, lack of power to take action against malpractices, lack of financial, technological and human resources, lack of qualified trainers and ineffective training institutes are antecedents of ineffective audits which ultimately make it difficult to bring transparency and accountability in the public sector. It is recommended that Parliament should facilitate government auditors through the availability of sufficient resources, training and growth opportunities.

Deepa Vinay   and Divya Singh   

Woman constitutes the family, which leads to society and Nation. Social and economic development of women is necessary for overall economic development of any society or a country and Entrepreneurship is the state of mind which every woman has in her but has not been capitalized in India in the way in which it should be. So women entrepreneur is a person who accepts challenging role to meet her personal needs and become economically independent. A strong desire to do something positive is an inbuilt quality of entrepreneurial women, who is capable of contributing values in both family and social life. They are involved in business activities at all levels, making important contributions to economic growth. While many women are succeeding in business, they are still constrained by the gender values, norms and stereotypes in the environment in which they operate. Because of their reproductive roles they tend to be responsible for business as well as for most of the unpaid work in the household. They have less time to devote to their work and they are less mobile. A key issue, therefore, is whether women entrepreneurs face specific problems in setting up in business that is different from those faced by male-owned businesses. The present article deals with the concept of women entrepreneur, reasons to become entrepreneurs, advantages of women entrepreneur, present status, impediments, measures to remove obstacles, steps taken by the Indian Government in term of five year plans, schemes for promotion & development of women entrepreneurship in India and some leading women entrepreneurs of India.

Luca Bucciarelli   

This work is presenting the main theories on organisational behaviour when facing change and innovation management. The change process is necessary in order to maximise the innovations and/or to adapt to new realities [1], leadership and consequently management are critical factors to drive the change itself [2]. The first part of this work is a literature review of the main models for leading innovation and change. The most relevant theories and application to the organisational management are taken in account and critically analysed. It is followed by the exploration of a case study of an unsuccessful change and how to transform it into a successful one.

Muhammad Obeidat   Max North   Lloyd Burgess   Richard Parker   and Sarah North   

As production of data is exponentially growing with a drastically lower cost, the importance of data mining required to extract and discover valuable information is becoming more paramount. To be functional in any business or industry, data must be capable of supporting sound decision-making and plausible prediction. The purpose of this paper is concisely but broadly to provide a synopsis of the technology and theory of data mining, providing an enhanced comprehension of the methods by which massive data can be transferred into meaningful information.

Almaz Sandybayev   

Tourism and recreation are parts of human life environment. A particularly important role is taken by hospitality and tourism service providers employing various groups of employees. However, the work environment is not always comfortable and includes factors that have a negative impact on mental development of the personnel. One of these factors is mobbing. The survey has been conducted in the hospitality sector which indicates a significant growth of mobbing among a group of hotel employees in Northern Cyprus by using quantitative research approach. Negative Acts Questionnaire (NAQ Scale) was used for analysing the level of mobbing. Thus, 360 participants were assessed by a questionnaire. The results have proved that mobbing within sample groups is widespread and seriousness of the problem of mobbing confirms not only the degree of its distribution but also the severity of its consequences for the individual.

Prapawan Pangsri   

Multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) methods are chosen among alternatives in order to attain specific objectives. In this research, the purpose of methodology is to provide decision methods for project managers in construction companies. The methodology is combined into three methods consisting of Delphi method, Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS). As the result, the criteria for selection are determined by expert opinions, and then assign the weight of criteria by AHP. Finally, TOPSIS method is used to evaluate alternatives which are found prioritized by weight for project , namely project 5 equal 0.747 , project 7 equal 0.746 , project 3 equal 0.614, project 2 equal 0.441, project 4 equal 0.386 , project 1 equal 0.358 and project 6 equal 0.264 respectively.

Boubacar Basse   

Among the difficulties that plague the flight of African companies are listed excessive centralization combining with loss of control of decentralized units, systematic interference by the holder of the share capital in the operational management of the company and preferential recruitment of staff based on a certain proximity to the founder leader. Based on a case study in the Senegalese private sector (private institutions of higher education), the author shows that the tools and methods of theoretical organization remain difficult to apply to the "raw" state in an African context. Far from being linked to African cultural depths, practices so observed can be eradicated through the implementation of a management consultation aimed at unlocking the potential of all staff members.

Poonam Jindal   and Mohsin Shaikh   

The current paper aims to investigate the importance of behavioral training and development in organizations for talent management. The importance of technically strong employees is always there in organizations, but managing people is not same as managing technology. If people are motivated to work, they can use their technological strengths for the companies' betterment. Because of the lack of behavioral skills they often lack leadership skills. This paper is based on extensive literature review, to understand the importance of Behavioral Training as Talent Management strategy in Organizations in current scenario. Now organizations need leaders not only good employees, keeping this in mind organizations are giving more importance to behavioral skill training to develop managers as leaders. Behavioral skills training helps you to understand who you are and what you want to be. Behavioral training aims at developing skills for self-regulation of brain activity. The importance on behavioral training is increasing worldwide as Prof Buddhadip Mukharjee of Indian Institute of Social Welfare & Business Management (IISWBM) shared his expertise on "Organizational Behavior" to working executives of UK, MALAYSIA, SOUTH AFRICA, MIDDLE EAST, SINGAPORE & INDIA by interactive classes through TeamViewer. In today's time survival of the business is not the only requirement, it should have the sustainable growth also in global economy and for that companies are working on developing, maintaining and retaining the talent through talent management strategies. Training is one of the many strategies companies are working on and behavioural training is getting more concerned because its not your ability but your attitude which make you successful in job. Behavioral skills are the requirement not only for survival but for the balance of personal and professional life too. Today's stressful life of employees is being constraint for their best performance in job, for this reason too Organizations are giving importance to Behavioral Skills Training not only for managerial people but for all employees in organization. Many Research papers have put the light on the behavioral training and how organizations are conducting these training. Here in this paper the light has thrown on the importance of behavioral training for talent management in organizations. Companies are understanding the importance of these trainings that's why they are more concerned about program like mentoring and coaching which can be the talent management strategy for companies. "If you think about the leaders with whom people most want to work in an organization they probably have this ability to exude upbeat feelings. It's one reason emotionally intelligent leaders attract talented people- for the pleasure of working in their presence." Daniel Goleman – The New Leaders These lines of Daniel reflect the importance of behavioral skills for a leader or manager.

Jitti Kittilertpaisan   Charkit Chanchiprecha   and Chainaron Phoonkasem   

The main purpose of the study was to examine the relationship between organizational citizenship behaviors and organizational effectiveness. The number of questionnaires returned to the author was 836 questionnaires; the final response rate is 71.2%. The findings indicate that there is a significant relationship between organizational citizenship behavior and its sub variables such as sportsmanship, civic virtue, conscientious, courtesy and altruism with organizational.

Ahmad Bashawir Abdul Ghani   and Emil Mahyudin   

How can Korean multinational enterprise ensure control over their international strategic alliances operations in developing markets? Does control evolve? What are some of the implications of alternate control mechanisms? These are some of the question that the current study addresses within the context of Malaysian and the developed Korean multinational enterprise. In doing so, it replicates and refines previous researches conceptualization of international strategic alliances control and extends their framework to include partner firms. A qualitative, cross-case research methodology was employed to analyze the three dimensions of international strategic alliance control, namely the mechanisms through which control is exerted, the extent of control achieved by the partners and the focus of activities over which partners exercise control. Two in depth case studies were conducted with flourishing Malaysian and Korean strategic alliance partner firms in order to provide an in-depth understanding of how control operates within dissimilar business and cultural environments. The case study results indicated the use of multiple control mechanisms within the strategic alliances and provided detail as to how each mechanism exerted control. Further, the results illustrated the evolving nature of international strategic alliances control and identified two types of international strategic alliances namely Technology-based (Type 1) and Market knowledge, Distribution-based (Type 2) international strategic alliances. From the cross - case study results, it can be inferred that both Malaysian and Korean multinational enterprise operating within the scope of international strategic alliances need to employ control mechanisms that have a value adding future orientation in order to enhance mutual benefits.

Ibrahim Baba   

Environmental issue is a very sensitive matter in state governance today in sub-Saharan Africa. Its utilization and management are issues that government can hardly ignore. Oil is Nigeria`s highest source of foreign earnings. And 94% of the commodity is produce in Niger Delta region of the country while the remaining 4.5% is produce in the south eastern region of the country specifically in areas between Abia and Imo states while the remaining 1.5% is produce in the south western state of Ondo. Minimal governmental attention to environmental management in region where this commodity is produce is translating in demand for resource control and other forms of civil disobedience. Conducted with the use of quantitative research analysis and method, this work examines the meanings of political ecology, environmental management and resource control in relations to the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. The work also examines some of the emerging lessons been learnt from state negligence of environmental management in the region. Lessons emanating from demand for resource control by the people of the region were also examine by the study. And finally, the work also made suggestions on the way forward on this sensitive political ecological matter.

Ming-Chuan Hsieh   Tsui-Shuang Wang   Chun-Pao Fan   and Chung-I Huang   

The main purpose of this study was to explore the emotional intelligence(EI) and interpersonal relationships(IRs) of college students and understand the important factors that were relevant to them. A cross-sectional study was adopted and a structured questionnaire was sent to the college students who agreed to participate in this study. A total of 600 subjects were recruited from three colleges in southern Taiwan, and 587questionnaires were completed and returned. SPSS18.0 was used for statistical analysis, mean, standard deviation, ANOVA, t-test, multiple regression, factor analysis and Pearson correlation were employed to analyze the data. The empirical results showed that: (1) The emotional intelligence (EI) and interpersonal relationships(IRs) of college students were above average level.(2) College students' EI and IRs showed significant differences by gender, romantic relationship, monthly allowance, family status. Female students have higher EI and IRs than male students. (3) The perceived level of EI was positive correlated with IRs. The higher the college students' emotional intelligence was, the higher interpersonal relationships was. (4) In examining the predictors of IRs, 3 important factors including "empathy "," self-regulation "and" relationship management" was found to explain 50.7% of the variance in IRs.

Wan-Li Wei   Ya-Fen Tsai   and Ching-Jung Fang   

Service design is a revolution to drive industry to be innovative. Design thinking, however, is the most effective way for the innovation during the process of service design. Service innovation, design methods, or tools of new product development are made for customers to create new value and expected to construct user-concerted product service system by macroscopic viewpoints of design and service experiences. Therefore, this research aims at constructing an objective systemic innovative design model through in-depth interview and grounded theory to discuss innovative factors of new product development and limitations of innovation for customer needs-oriented design thinking index construction and to review the completeness of current industrial product service system. The contributions of this research show six aspects of innovative design model as rules or principles of innovative development on new product development of industry including innovative design basis, innovative design development, innovative design capabilities, innovative design barriers, innovative design risks and effectiveness evaluation. For the aspect of innovative design basis, designer characteristics are the most influential beginning for product innovative design. For the aspect of innovative design development, the most significant is design process thinking model. For the aspect of innovative design capabilities, the most significant is designers' capabilities training. For the aspect of innovative design barriers, innovative known limitations and unknown restrictions are both important. For the aspect of innovative design risks, the most significant is product design rick management. For the aspect of effectiveness evaluation, the most significant is new product development effectiveness evaluation. Therefore, a systemic innovative design model based on six aspects is constructed to be a criterion of product innovative development of design for domestic industry. Product service system is a fully achievement for design service, and design service is a sequence of innovative journey that brings not only innovation for technology and products on new product development by design thinking but also commercial opportunities for industries with effectiveness.

Peter Firkola   

This paper examines recent recruitment practices to determine whether Japanese companies have adapted to the changing global economic environment. A literature review combining company surveys and government related statistical data was used. It was found that many large companies have adapted recruitment processes in varying degrees to deal with the changing economic environment. These changes include varying the number of hires and diversifying hiring conditions. Although many Japanese companies are adapting their recruitment processes, they still appear resistant to change their overall recruitment strategy.

Alex Mears   

Process-driven performance targets were used in the English NHS in the late 1990s and early 2000’s to drive improvement. There have been clear successes, and well-documented instances of perverse incentives leading to negative behaviours, such as data manipulation and resource diversion. Recently, policy in England has moved away from targets, focusing more on locally-negotiated metrics. The literature was searched for relevant materials, from a broad social science perspective. Probative work from all disciplines was brought together to give an overview of targets, perverse incentives and the routes to minimising such unintended consequences, and to enable conclusions to be drawn. The consequences of targets are well-documented, but less well understood. Routes are available to mitigate the potential for perverse incentives, within the design and interpretation phases and also in terms of sanctions for gamers. These have largely not been followed, rather the political fashion has moved away from targets altogether. It is hypothesised that this will lead to an increase in waiting times, although this has yet to fully manifest. While targets may swing in and out of fashion, the psychological drivers remain: wherever a measure is imposed that carries with it a consequence, there will be a perverse incentive. Process-driven targets in healthcare have supporters and critics. Their heyday in the English National Health Service was primarily during the New Labour Government of the late 1990s and early 2000s, with the combination of process-heavy targets and high levels of incentive leading to not only high levels of compliance and improvement, but also well-documented instances of gaming behaviour. Proponents of the use of targets point to notable successes in the reduction of waiting times where key targets were introduced (such as ambulance Category A (life-threatening cases) response times). Opponents raise a number of issues around the negative behaviours that targets give rise to, for example the diversion of resource to the measured area and the distortion of clinical priorities. Recently, it would appear that health policy has moved away from targets as a measurement system; in this paper we argue that if it is hoped that this will prevent perverse incentives and gaming arising, then this is unlikely to succeed: wherever performance or quality are measured, then there will be an incentive to manipulate the data or circumstances to give the appearance of compliance. We conclude with a consideration of the strategies available to reduce or mitigate gaming through how measures are designed, interpreted and how gaming is perceived.

Aluisius Hery Pratono   and Rosli Mahmood   

Contingency theory points out the adaptive management is crucial point to sustainable firm performance. This research aims to determine the relative importance of a set of variables comprising the four entrepreneurial management variables, i.e. strategic orientation, organization culture, organization structure, and reward system, and a set of environmental turbulence variables in predicting firm performance. This research uses firm-level data with observed population of this research is SMEs in Surabaya, Indonesia. Through adopting hierarchical regression approach and partial least square method, this study indicates that moderating effect of environmental turbulence changes the direction of relationship between entrepreneurial management and firm performance. During low environmental turbulence, entrepreneurial management has positive impact on firm performance, but the direction changes. Entrepreneurial management has negative impact on firm performance during high environmental turbulence.

Thanawatdech Thirapatsakun   Chanongkorn Kuntonbutr   and Panisa Mechinda   

The purpose of this article was to investigate the relationships among job demands, work engagement, and turnover intention in the multiple groups of different levels of perceived organizational support. Data were collected from 890 professional nurses working in the private hospital industry of medical tourism in Thailand. The statistical methods employed were confirmatory factor analysis, multiple groups analysis, and structural equation modeling. The results revealed that there was a significant, work engagement had mediating effects on the relationship between job demand and turnover intention. Meanwhile, work engagement mediated the relationship between perceived organizational supports and turnover intentions. The second objective was to examine the moderating effects of the multiple groups of perceived organizational support levels on the relationship between job demands and work engagement. The results showed that multiple groups of different levels of perceived organizational support had no moderating influence. Therefore, it could be concluded from this study that perceived organizational support had an indirect influence on turnover intention through work engagement but had no moderating effects.

Kwang Yong Lee   and Sang Woo Bae   

The purpose of this study was to investigate the factors affecting foreign spectator attendance to provide basic knowledge for Korean professional marketers for effective and efficient marketing strategies. The level of attendance at sports events may be significantly related to teams’ revenues because sponsorship and broadcasting revenues depend heavily on the level of team attendance. 395 subjects were selected by convenience sampling method. The data was analyzed by PASW 18.0 for a t-test analysis, and Multiple regression analysis. The results were as follows. First, there are significant differences of attendance intention between attendance experiences. At Leisure, Event/Service, Performance Factors, the mean scores of 'Yes' respondents was statistically higher than 'No' respondents. Second, leisure, performance and event/service had significantly effects on attendance intention.

Subnu Perera   

The purpose of this research is to analyze and review the dimensions of ‘innovation’ related to a hotel product while researching its contributions to a superior online presence. The significance of the study is to analyze: the degree of innovation, continuous innovation, innovation vs. renovation, validity, barriers and appropriateness of innovation for a hotel product. Here the online presence is also analyzed against the past, the present and the future while reviewing possible links which can be used to add value.

Jan Froestad   

In post-apartheid South Africa there is a strong need to build new relations of trust within and between agencies of public administration. The paper demonstrate how, in the latter part of the 1990s, a group of managers in a municipal health agency in the province of the Western Cape successfully transformed internal relations from a situation of insecurity and distrust to one of reliance and trust. It is argued that the outcome was conditioned on the adoption of a broad repertoire of managerial strategies aimed at building reliance and trust by reducing the uncertainties and vulnerabilities of related risks.

Katarzyna Marek-Kolodziej   Iwona Lapunka   and Iwona Pisz   

Contemporary enterprises, focused on external business environment, define their strategic targets, with regard to the context of market and customer requirements.Their internal organization form should aim towards transformations, driven by global economic, political and social processes.This, further involves rejecting of existing stereotypes, distribution of tasks and functions performance, as well as a possibility to adapt in response to environment variations, being well exemplified by project driven organizations. Management of individual single orders in enterprises with functional structures can be treated as “project driven orders” management.The orders may have manufacturing or service type. From this reason it is necessity to implement project driven approach for efficient performance in these enterprises. The paper presents the current state of information, determiners of orders management transformation towards project driven approach and the preliminary research results, obtained from analysis of project driven orders management efficiency in chosen Polish construction enterprises from Opole Province.The research aimed at encompassing a context focused on competencies and knowledge development within the group of enterprises under research, resulting from a permanent need of transformation within companies, managing project driven orders, from traditional organization types to dynamic project driven organizations, with features of knowledge-based organizations.

Neha P. Mehta   and Pawan Kumar Chugan   

In retail industry furniture and furnishing category has become more competitive. There are many players entering into organized format of retail in this category. Therefore, it becomes important for retailers to differentiate themselves from each other. As the products are similar, one of the area in which they can differentiate themselves is store presentation in terms of visual merchandising. To study which dimensions have an impact on purchase behavior of consumers, this study is undertaken. By analyzing the impact of various dimensions of merchandising display such as window display, store front, merchandise presentation, store layout and organization, creative style and trend co-ordination, signages/graphics and store environment, it is found that window display, store front, store layout and organization (shelf display) and creative style and trend co-ordination have impact on purchase behavior of consumers.

Shaotang Wu   and Wenting Xie   

With case study, this paper discusses the establishment and the driving force of the cooperative confidence of cross-strait LED standard. The study shows: there is phased establishment of the cooperative confidence of cross-strait LED standard, including making communication, reaching consensus and establishing confidence. Each stage has different driving forces which are rational economic factor, social factor and sense of national mission; rational economic factor involves in resource dependence, transaction cost and technology development; social factor includes mimetic, coercive, normative forces. Then the cooperative confidence of LED standard has been achieved through the consensus, landing on and leading to the sense of national mission. The establishment of cooperative confidence of cross-strait LED standard is a combination of many factors' effects. These results not only enrich the theory of the establishment reasons of the cross-strait industry, but also provide a new perspective for the establishment of cooperative confidence of cross-strait industry standard.

Hamza Salim. khraim   Sameer M. Al-Jabaly   and Aymen S.Khraim   

This paper is a small section from a greater project on airline industry in Jordan. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effect of perceived value and customer satisfaction on perceived price fairness of airline travelers in new context which is Jordan. A quantitative research design is used based on data collected via a questionnaire from Jordanian passengers at Queen Alia Airport, Amman-Jordan, between July 2013 and September 2013, with focus on economy class passengers. The researchers chose a convenience sample of 20 flights mainly heading to Gulf countries, considering the capacity of each flights and number of passenger onboard, about 20 questionnaires were distributed on each flight. Out of (400) questionnaires distributed a total of (343) answered questionnaire were retrieved, which is (86%) of the total distributed questionnaires. After checking the retrieved questionnaires, about (306) questionnaires were valid. Ultimately, (77%) of the total questionnaires entered the analysis. The statistical analysis show that the three hypotheses were accepted and there is a significant effect of perceived value and customer satisfaction on perceived price fairness of airline travelers

Tanuj Mathur   and Ujjwal Kanti Paul   

The aim of the study was to measure the efficiency of non life insurance companies operating in India. For this purpose 20 non life insurance companies were selected for the financial year period 2012-13. Data envelopment analysis (DEA) technique was applied to assess the efficiency scores of the insurers. OLS regression method was used in conjunction with financial ratios to ascertain the exposure they have on the overall technical efficiency (OTE) of the insurers. Thus, the results showed directional impact the ratios have on the technical efficiency of the insurers.

Lidija Stefanovska   and Toni Soklevski   

Formulation of the organizational strategies is a complex phase of strategic and operating management in which based on the given information we need to create the future directions for functioning of the organization. Many times in that process the teams for strategic planning rely on the financial reports which represent the financial perspective, neglecting at first sight "the irrelevant" activities that can wait. In the future, this approach can be fatal for a certain organization. Therefore emerges the need for application of Balanced Scorecard as already proven concept to assist the teams in making future strategic plans, which from there will also depend on the operating and organizational strategy. During that is created a solid foundation for the organizations not to focus only on the financial aspects, but also on the internal processes and the human resources. The main goal of this paper is to give a theoretical review of the benefits of using the concept of adjusted balance. The narrower goal is to see how the process of strategic planning the organization directs its efforts towards various aspects because of that distribution in a great deal will depend on the activities of the operating management.

V.P. Maslov   

Efficient personnel administration has a significant impact on the outcome of a project. An effective incentive pay system helps an institution to achieve its goals, meeting the personal needs of participants. The present study proposes a novel incentive pay system for R & D project management on the basis of a logistic approach to describe regularities in the efficiency of scientific research depending on the volume of financial stimulation that can be plotted as an S-shaped curve. In particular, this paper suggests a method for optimizing expenses of material stimulation in specific collectives by using the Delphi method and a graphic differentiation of the S-shaped curve.

Angelo Corallo   Fabrizio Errico   and Mariangela Lazoi   

The aerospace industry is characterized by intensive collaborations among firms that work for the realization of complex aerospace products that require high risks and costs. Collaboration and risk sharing are needed at each supply chain level. For companies working in networks, in this period of market changes and crisis, it is needed to think and re-think about a networked business model highlighting the relevance of each collaborating actor in the value generation for new products. The paper aims to explore the business model features of companies working in aerospace networks and to highlight improvements actions. Evidences are collected through a survey and a case study. The research results suggest two new elements for business model frameworks: the value exchange strategy and the value enablers both necessary for an extended collaboration among all nodes of a business network. The introduction of these two elements is discussed and justified in the paper.

Mieczyslaw Morawski   

The paper presents reasons underlying the choice of research direction and the research project assumptions focused on the conceptual category – national management styles. Additionally, there are presented comments to research assumptions reflecting the Author’s standpoint, as well as conclusions based on the conducted preliminary studies. In the Author’s opinion the performed analysis will facilitate defining qualities specific for Polish national management style and also NMS in other Central European countries.

O.I. Babina   and R.A. Baryshev   

A new and a very urgent phenomenon in the activity of university libraries is carrying out a marketing research. It enables the administration to study the interests, needs and requirements of the readers, analyse the most demanded information and library services and resources, and guide the libraries to provide the users with the resources and services according to their needs. The article presents the analysis results of the marketing research carried out at the Academic Library of the Siberian Federal University in Krasnoyarsk city. The marketing research consists of several blocks: the comfort of the working environment for the users, the demand for the information resources and services, quality of the library service provided to the readers.

Ehsan Abasi   Rahmatollah Mohammadipour   and Mohammad Aidi   

Organizational justice has shown to be a predictor of many behavioral outcomes. Thus it should be taken into account by the managers seeking to maximize the job satisfaction of their employees. The purpose of the present study was to examine the impact of organizational justice dimensions on job satisfaction of the employees working at an Iranian bank (bankSepah) in the city of Ilam. The sample consisted of 110 participants from which 105 questionnaires were collected. The results showed that the three dimensions of organizational justice including distributive, procedural and interactional justice were significantly related to overall job satisfaction of the employees. From the three dimensions distributive justice was the strongest predictor. It was also found that the female employees were more satisfied with the job relative to the male co-workers.

Kontogeorga Georgia   and Goulas Dimitrios   

The present paper investigates the role of management of public entities in Greece concerning the achievement of compliance with budgetary laws and regulations as well as with the recommendations of external audit. In the last three-year period, the reconstruction of the wider financial management system has been attempted via a line of legislative reforms. The research was carried out with the distribution of questionnaires to the administrative executives of entities and the auditors of Hellenic Court of Audit and it led to the conclusion that the two parties conceive the role of management differently, to a certain extent. They agree, however, in the reformation of the system of external audit and its alignment with the requirements of international standards.

Debora Mary Muchilwa   Odoyo Collins Otieno   Moses Oginda   and David Oima   

Public Relations is a department which has not been effectively utilized in the public sector, particularly in the police force in Kenya. One can hardly find it clearly defined and stipulated in the statutes and organizational structures of the various public institutions. Its presumed non-existence has resulted to lack of aggressiveness and low morale among staff members, negative publicity and bribery incidences in the forces, increased insecurity, negligence and public demonstrations as witnessed in Kenya during the 2007 post election violence. This study sought to determine the effect of public relations principles in the management of the police force in Kenya. This study used cross sectional data. The study target populations were four (4) police stations in Kisumu police division comprising of approximately 330 staff members of the force in the four stations under KPD (this figures are as at October 2008). Given the numbers involved and sensitivity of information in the police force, convenience and simple random sampling were used for the study. A reconnaissance study done in October 2008 confirms the availability of respondents to provide data required. Descriptive statistics was used to analyze the data, which was presented in the form of frequency tables and bar charts. The data for the study reported that only top-level management was involved in planning activities. Majority (59.03%, n=98) of the respondents seemed to be of the opinion that the effectiveness and efficiency of the planning process including policy formulation and analysis was on the average. The media was most involved in informing management on PR as stated by 59.03% of the respondents. The study recommends that facts gathering instrument like conducting of interviews, literature review, observation and informal conversations be used so as to be able to collect appropriate data. This is because Radio/TV alone cannot offer holistic information on the PR situation. It would thus be important to conduct full surveys and to produce reports so as to accurately present the PR situation.

Girish S. Bagale   

This paper proposes research framework to study impact of organizational factors on E-Commerce Implementation in Indian MSME sector. It also shows the profound impact of MSME sector on Indian Economy, status of E-commerce in India & imperative of E-Commerce for Indian MSME sector. A literature review in this area.

Hong Gong   and Wen Huo   

By an empirical examination on investment fund market in China, We find that portfolio managers’ turnover does not affect the risk adjustment strategy of the funds, demonstrating that fund companies rather than portfolio managers are in charge of the fund investment strategy. Moreover, Chinese portfolio managers, even after they have been terminated, would be appointed other positions in the same fund company. It seems that this kind of turnover hardly has sufficient pressure on portfolio managers.

MohammadReza Sadeghi Moghadam  Tannaz Assadollahzadeh  Mehdi Mirmoini  and Salameh Azimi  

World cities are now in a competition with other places to reach attention of investors, visitors, skillful workers and events. City branding is a strategic way of local government to win this competition and to attain economic, politics and socio-cultural objectives. Unfortunately Iranian cities haven’t been able to take a part in this competition in spite of its inherent potentials and all efforts which they have done. City branding could be the best solution to Iranian cities’ lack of popularity in today’s globalized world and is studied in this research as a tool to improve Iranian cities’ global image and show all their hidden values. First the definition of city brand, the way which is created and then some factors to evaluate the branding potentials of cities was identified to be used in the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to determine which Iranian city has the most potentials to be successfully branded. The results shows that Isfahan, compared with other cities such as Shiraz and Mashhad with the final priority of 0.438 is chosen as the best and at the end Isfahan was selected among the Iranian cities to be introduced as a global level, hospitable environment and tourism destination, because of its popularity and potential.

Alexan Lipitakis   and Evangelia A.E.C. Lipitakis   

This article describes an innovative e-business strategy planning e-valuation approach, based on adaptive algorithmic modeling methods for solving a wide class of e-business and strategic management problems. The proposed methodology is based on basic ideas and concepts of four key-field interrelated sciences, i.e. Computing Science, Applied Mathematics, Management and Economic Sciences. Furthermore, the fundamental scientific concepts of adaptability and uncertainty are shown to play a critical role of major importance for a (near) optimum solution of a class of complex e-business/services and strategic management problems. A characteristic case study of adaptive algorithmic schemes containing several distinct e-valuation procedures corresponding to e-business performance models under certain environmental pressures, organizational constraints and describing the relationships between technology, innovation and firm performance, is presented in the proposed adaptive algorithmic modeling approach. The new hybrid algorithmic model includes six dynamic modules, can be optimized and used effectively in e-business performance and strategic planning e-valuation of various e-services in very large organizations. This new methodology incorporating critical factors for e-business performance can play a significant role of major importance for (near) optimum solutions of a class of complex e-business/services and strategic management problems.

Benjamin Fung   

Transparency and disclosure (T&D) are essential elements of a robust corporate governance framework as they provide the base for informed decision making by shareholders, stakeholders and potential investors in relation to capital allocation, corporate transactions and financial performance monitoring. The importance of transparency has been widely recognized by both academics and market regulators, resulting in numerous rules and regulations being introduced over time to ensure timely and reliable disclosure of financial information, creating standards to which companies must adhere. Today, transparency is taking on a new meaning of more comprehensive and proactive disclosures instead of the release of corporate governance details or policies in a ‘reactive’ fashion. The new concept of transparency putting more responsibilities on the corporation not only let the truth be available to the public but imposes to disclose it to every stakeholder and different stakeholder groups. Corporate governance in today’s global environment has become more complex and dynamic in recent years due to increased regulatory requirements and greater scrutiny, creating increased responsibilities for board of directors to comply with rigorous governance standards and also to cope with increasing demand from shareholders and other stakeholders for T&D. Considerable attention has been focused on the corporate disclosure requirements and transparency since the Asian financial crisis. It has generally been agreed that the main failure leading to the financial crisis stemmed directly from the lack of financial disclosure and inadequate governance practices. Thus, corporations are now under pressure to provide timely, consistent and accurate information to shareholders and the public regarding financial performance, liabilities, control and ownership, and corporate governance issues. This is critical if investors are to be able to make informed judgments on the risks and rewards of any investment. On the other hand, the greater the extent of T&D, the greater the level of confidence in the operation of markets, and the greater is the access to capital financing. Due to the growing awareness of investors’ rights, corporations should focus their efforts to elevate their T&D and overall level of corporate governance standards for the benefits of all their stakeholders.

Rizwan Qaiser Danish   Farid Ahmad   SiRamzan   and Mohsin Ahmad Khan   

The aim of this study was to investigate what are the determinants of employee engagement in service sector of Pakistan. A self-administered questionnaire was used for data collection of data from respondents working in service sector on five-point Likert scale. Overall 301 filled useable questionnaires were entered. The average age is 25-29 years and 67% of total respondents are male. The average working experience of the participants is 2-5 years. The results of confirmatory factor analysis and multiple regression analysis indicate that the core self-evaluation, fairness and treatment of employees and service environment of organization are positively and significantly related with employee engagement. Different antecedents of employee engagement are investigated in this study. As a result, this research endeavors to fill the gap about the lack of academic literature on fairness and treatment of employees in Pakistani context. Findings of this research do have practical implications for service sector, mainly for their human resources department as how they can increase the engagement of employees in service sector. Low sample size is limitation in generalizing the results of this study. Sample size may be increased and this study should be tested in other regions as well.

Hung-Ju Chien   

According to a survey conducted by the Council for Economic Planning and Development of Taiwan, the population of adults aged 65 years or above will increase from 11.2% in 2012 to 20% in 2025. The Veterans Affairs Commission (VAC) Taiwan also revealed that until April of 2011, there are 456,866 veterans living in Taiwan (one in fifty Taiwanese residents is a veteran). Their average age is 68.1 years old and the majority of veterans (56%) are aged 65 and older. The increase in life expectancy and ongoing growth of aging population has led to new models of aging that empower older people to fulfill their quality of later life. In order to take care of the veterans who have contributed to the country and spent half of their life defending the country, the Veterans Affairs Commission Taiwan is assigned with responsibilities to assist in medical care, home care and other general services. These services were designed to facilitate the transition of military personnel from the armed forces to civilian life. The aim of this paper is to identify the critical successful factors of business management in Taiwanese Veterans 51ÊÓÆ” by Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). The author’s survey results revealed that the top three critical successful factors of business management in Taiwanese Veterans 51ÊÓÆ” are; service quality of the professional team, long-term care planning and accidents audit plan.

Sergey A. Surkov   

Psychological foundations of human activities have changed. This applies to Economy. If before the foundation of human behavior was the fact that is hidden and open sexuality, but now her value is reduced. Aggressiveness comes to the fore. The notion of aggressiveness is coming to the forefront. Its components can be approximately express in the indicators by G.Hofstede. Poverty can be linked to the rate of economic development through indicators of aggressiveness. The use of psychological approaches will clarify many of the economic models.

Katarzyna Piwowar-Sulej   

The article asks the question whether work in projects is a new form of work. In order to find an answer to this question the components of forms of work have been presented. They were based upon the division by the forms of employment, forms of work organization and forms of organization of working time. Literature studies were complemented by the results of empirical research conducted with 22 project managers. The analysis took into account the Polish context of the way companies cooperate (some cultural and legal aspects).

Hossein Eydi   and Hamed Farzi   

Nowadays, Olympic Games have become one of the most large-scale and profitable global media events. In the world of sports, marketing, promotion and advertisement are fundamental tools for generating great profits. The current article will explore the issue of marketing-mediated sport events on the example of Olympic Games and will touch upon the issues of promotion of properly the Games, advertising athletes and participants, sources of profit for conducting the Games and new trends in marketing of Olympics. The issue will be discussed and is aimed at tracing the compliance of theoretical findings on advertisement, promotion and sponsorship strategies, on the example of one of the most profitable events, the Olympic Games. Thus, the work will focus on the issue of current developments of Olympic marketing and steps to be done in both theoretical and practical way to ensure further effectiveness and attractiveness of Olympic marketing program.

Eric Chan   

The entire life cycle of a building include construction, operation, maintenance, demolition and removal, and the normal expected life span of a commercial building may up to 100 years. During this time span, building refurbishment is an important topical in facilities management but limited attempt has been made to study the sustainable refurbishment. In fact, refurbishment strategy should always be one of the core business decisions in the management agenda. The purpose of this research study is to collect the view from a group of practitioners of Australia prior to deciding the building maintenance strategy of existing commercial building. Through extensive literatures review and the quantitative and qualitative data collecting approaches, this paper concludes that traditional maintenance strategies are not adequate but sustainable approach is the right direction. Along the line, the key factors affecting sustainable refurbishment are economical considerations, and the obvious benefits relates to social matters. Respondents also suggest three precedent strategies in sustainable refurbishments to materialize such benefits: namely reusing building elements, applying sustainable techniques and using new materials and adopting new technologies.

PrzemysƂaw WoƂczek   

The article presents a part of the results of research conducted by the Strategic Management Department of the WrocƂaw University of Economics*. The study was conducted on a sample of 150 companies (3 separate samples [small, medium and big companies] each with N = 50 entities). The respondents group was both: joint stock companies not listed on the Warsaw Stock Exchange (WSE) and the WSE listed joint stock companies. The respondents were company managers, here defined as a CEO, Strategic Director, Managing Director or the company's Board, here understood as Company Chairman/President and Board Members. The research methods included direct questionnaire interview (PAPI – Paper and Pencil Interview). The tool used to gather information was a questionnaire which included: 84 questions in the main part, 4 questions in the recruitment part and 11 questions in the demographics part. The study was conducted from October 2011 to January 2012. In the article some aspects concerning the issue of strategy formalization is presented. This paper addresses correlation (if any) between the size of an enterprise and the level of company strategy formalization. Analyses and conclusions presented herein are aimed at testing the following research hypothesis: “It is assumed that the larger the enterprise, the more formalized is the enterprise strategy”.

Deepa S.   and Manisha Seth   

Effective learning is an outcome of effective teaching. Effective teaching, in turn, requires effective instructors. This study addresses relevant issues related to effective learning by comparing student perceptions of instructor characteristics in a b-school. It is based on the conceptual premise that effective college learning depends more on personality characteristics which students perceive to be relevant in the teaching/learning environment. Even though an instructor may be an expert in his field and very rich academically, it is the manner in which he transfers information and knowledge to the students that matters the most. The results of the factor analysis applied in the study indicate that the six most vital factors for learning effectiveness are: style of managing class, evaluation of student performance, facilitation, teaching style, communication skills and attitude.

Ronny Kountur    and Yuanyuan Huo   

The study intended to identify factors contributing to the attractiveness of natural medicine products. A total of 185 respondents were asked using self-made questionnaire that has reliability of 78 to 91 percent. Three contributing factors were identified they are medicinal properties, product appearance, and distribution channel. No significant relationship was found between the contributing factors and income levels of the respondents. No significant relationship was found between the contributing factors and age group. A significant relationship was found between the contributing factors and education level of the respondents.

Prof. Claudio Palumbo   

Generally it is required a single answer regarding the perceived satisfaction on different aspects of the work and organizational life. The use of questionnaires ‘Expectations and Perceptions’ bring out the information most properly and credibly by the difference between the expectation base of each one and subsequent evaluation of the actual reality in work place.

Steve Chen   Heather Adams-Blair   and Adora Miller   

This study investigated the academic and career interest of 221 sport management students from two regional state institutions. The goal was to identify those students’ needs and wants in order to properly guide and advise them obtaining a career in sports. Participants completed a 43-items survey questionnaire that was created based on the literature of Lewis and Quarterman (2006) and others. The contents covered: (a) demographic information, (b) career and sport interest, (c) sport spectatorial habits, (d) preferable work setting, (e) preferable cultivated skills/knowledge, and (f) self-perceived traits. Reliability analysis and test-retest were performed to test all 4-point Likert-scale rating items. The results show students are more interested in working for the professional franchises or intercollegiate athletics and desire to learn more communication and marketing skills. According to the stepwise regression analysis, both “preferable cultivated skills/knowledge” and “love for sports” are great predictors of one’s rating in preferable sport career. The findings generally supported that notion that sport jobs are commonly filled by sport lovers and enthusiasts. The results also intrigue the researchers to address issues such as: the lack of diverse perspective and global awareness on the career choices, and recruitment and development of future female students.

Tony Eng, M.D   and Vanessa Magel, R.N   

Brachytherapy is one of the key components for cervical cancer therapy. Cancellation of brachytherapy leads to prolongation of therapy time which has been shown to decrease cancer control. Therefore, any cancellation of brachytherapy will affect patient survival or cure. In this study, we looked into brachytherapy cancellation rates and identified the top three causes. We then incorporated proper systematic interventions to include reminder calls and patient education. The monthly pre-intervention brachytherapy cancellation rates were 17-42%. The post-intervention rates gradually decreased from 44% to 0% within 3 months of implementing changes. The impact sustained throughout the project duration. The treatment delay rate (treatment duration >63 days) was 57% pre-intervention compared with 44% post-intervention. Cancellation and patient treatment delay rates were substantially improved by our simple systematic interventions. This project still requires continued efforts and longer follow up to show sustained clinical impacts.

Dr. Hossein, Eydi    Dr. Homayon Abbasi   and Ako Ibrahim   

Measurement of organizational performance and effectiveness are very important in their strategic decision making and evaluate of sporting organization's successes. This study used the Competing Values Approach (CVA) for comparison of the organizational effectiveness model of sporting federations in Iran and Iraq. Population of study consists of all sporting federations in Iran and Iraq, and the sample was stakeholders (board of directors, professional employees, national referees, athletes and coaches) of 6 selected federations of Iran (basketball, volleyball, handball, wrestling, weightlifting and Taekwondo) and 4 selected federations of Iraq (basketball, Football, weightlifting and track and field) that selected according to a goal oriented method. Finally, three hundred sixty tow constituents from 6 NOSO of Iran and one hundred eighty four constituents from 4 NOSOs of Iraq participated in this study. Self-management OE questionnaire of Eydi and et al (2012) according to Shilbury & Moore (2006) scale, applied for research. Result of confirmatory factor analysis showed that productivity, stability and resource in NOSOs of Iran and productivity, interaction and work force expert in NOSO of Iraq was the critical determinant of organizational effectiveness in NOSOs.

Collins Odoyo 

This paper assessed the factors affecting implementation of community projects At Kimira – Oluch Smallhaolder Farm Improvement Project (KOSFIP) in Homa Bay County, Kenya. Study objectives included assess the factors causing delay in implementation of KOSFIP project; assess the factors causing escalation of costs in implementing KOSFIP project assess the attitude of the community towards KOSFIP project; and assess the effect of community leadership on implementation of KOSFIP project. A case study research design was used to collect data from 3,000 households in the project’s area of coverage. The study established that: natural occurrences such as floods and daily coordination of activities were major causes of delay as supported by 57.9% and 56.2% of the respondents respectively. Similarly, demand for compensation and resettlement, mitigation of floods and inflationary fluctuations were the major factors of cost escalation as supported by 59.6%, 49.7% and 57.5% of the respondents respectively. However, there was minimal interference with project implementation from the community as 93.7% of the respondents felt that community members were not a hindering factor. Finally, there was a weak positive linear relationship between local leaders support for implementation of KOSFIP project and their strong belief in handouts as shown by R = 0.421 and reduction in variations of R² = 17.8% in implementation of KOSFIP project can be explained by local leaders belief in handouts. Further, the value of t = 5.168 and 6.319 indicates that there was a strong significant positive effect on implementation of KOSFIP project by leaders’ belief in handouts. The study is useful to project planners, stakeholders and financiers who are in need of relevant information on factors affecting project implementation. It will also be useful to researchers and scholars who wish to generate more knowledge or fill gaps on implementation of community projects.

Harmeen Soch and Nidhi Aggarwal 

Retail sector is one of the fastest growing sector in Indian economy. It is the largest source of employment after agriculture and has deep penetration into rural India and generating more than 10 percent of India’s GDP. Retail industry is heavily people-based, requiring interaction and coordination of customers and service providers. Due to those unique characteristics of services, customer’s role in organization has become indispensable. The present study examines the factors of customer citizenship behaviour (CCB) and impact of commitment on customer citizenship behaviour. To analyze the factors, exploratory factor analysis (EFA) has been applied and later on confirmatory factor analysis conform the factors that has been explored through EFA. To measure the impact of commitment on CCB structural equation modeling technique has been used. The findings of the article provide insight into multiple helping behavior of customers which are though discretionary in nature, but help in the overall functioning of the organization.

Minakshi Garg and Pardeep Jain 

Industrial progress depends on satisfied labour force and in this connection the importance of labour welfare measures was accepted long back.. Labour welfare concept is basically based on human values, where each citizen has a right to work in a congenial environment with no hazards to his health on reasonable wages and other terms and conditions of employment. The days are over when labour was considered to be a commodity. W hen a worker joins industry he has to work in an entire strange atmosphere, creating problems of adjustment. Having a satisfied workforce is very much essential for smooth working of every organization. So this study is conducted to know whether the workers are satisfied with the welfare facilities provided by textile industries in Punjab . This paper has also attempted to study relationship between the sex of the respondents and awareness on welfare measures. The outcome of the study may help the administration and policy makers to differentiate the satisfying factors from dissatisfying and to take effective steps to improve the labour welfare facilities.

David Benders 

This analysis of previous research examines staff motivation and the influence on effective organizational growth. This critical analysis of Motivation-Hygiene Theory by Fredrick Herzberg examines opportunity areas for improvement of administration to create an effective working environment that supports its teachers. The findings from the literature claim that a good working environment is encouraging and this will lead to higher performance and job enrichment.

Hossein Eydi 

The purpose of this study was to examine the factorial validity of the eight-factor model of sport organizational effectiveness scale developed by Shilbury and Moore (2006). This instrument consists of 65 items that assess eight composite effectiveness dimensions pertinent to the operation of sport organizations: Flexibility, Resources, Planning, Productivity, Availability of Information, Stability, Skilled Workforce and Cohesive Workforce. The competing value approach (CVA) was used as a theoretical framework for developing this scale. Data were obtained from respondents affiliated with 6 Iranian sport federations with a questionnaire. Results indicated that the eight-factor model of effectiveness is an effective instrument to assess the organizational performance of non-profit sport federations. The application of the CVA in studying sport organizational effectiveness was also confirmed.

Neha P. Mehta and Pawan K. Chugan 

Apparel industry in India is booming and there is fierce competition among various players in apparel segment in terms of lifestyle format. The study is aimed to find out impact of various dimensions of visual merchandising on impulse buying behavior of the customers visiting “Central Malls”. Four dimensions of visual merchandising viz. window display, in-storeform/mannequin display, floor merchandising and promotional signage are studied and its impact on impulse buying behavior is found out. The results reveal that certain dimensions of visual merchandising do affect impulse purchase. Hence, visual merchandising is important for strategic marketing decisions to increase the sales of the stores.

Gianie Abdu and Purwanto    

The emerging of new retail stores in Indonesia has brought new competition to the current market competition. The object of this research is 7-Eleven. This research analyzes the relationship between variables of consumer behavior and willingness to buy. This research is purposed to find the relationship between the consumer behavior variables (cultural factor, social factor, personal factor and psychological factor) to the consumer willingness to buy a product in 7-Eleven convenience store. The scope and limitation of this study rounds in the 7-Eleven convenience store in Jatiwaringin, Jakarta with total samples 110 of 150 population average. Data was analyzed by using quantitative analysis. The interpretation of this research shows that the variables and dimensions of consumer behavior has a relationship with the consumer’s willingness to buy a product in 7-Eleven Jatiwaringin, Jakarta, even so, there are some variables that has a relationship but not affecting the willingness to buy significantly. The variables that is mostly affecting the willingness to buy in this research shows that social factors giving more affect more that any variables among the consumer behavior variables. The coefficient of determination (R²) is l 0.405 40.5% of the variation that occurs in the willingness to buy is described by all of the independent variables, cultural factor, social factor, personal factor, psychological factor, while the remaining 100% - 40.5% = 59.5% are explained by other variables which is not described in this research.

H. W. Ker and J. Y. Yang 

Emphasizing on exhibition industries can bring multiplier effects on benefits of corporations. To comply with the trend and to meet the skills and knowledge demanded by the workforce, the Department of International Trade of C Institute of Technology establishes a Simulation of International Commodity Exhibitionto provide students with practical experience in organizing an international commodity exhibition, integrating the curriculum what they have learned, and solving the problems they may face in the future workplace. However, a systematic procedure, based on the integration of information available, past experiences, and experts’ knowledge, has not been developed for this important activity. The practice of organizing exhibition and project management shares a lot of common characteristics. This paper aims to (1)examine the advantages of applying project management to the simulation of international commodity exhibition on campus, (2) suggest the practical application of project management in this simulation of exhibition on campus, including five processes and nine knowledge areas, and thus (3) provide Department with reference, and to avoid repetitive planning. Results suggested that simulation of commodity exhibition on campus should focus on the knowledge areas such as Human Resource Management, Integration Management, Communication Management, and Time Management. Further suggestions are given.

Marcelline Fusilier and Douglas Munro 

Universities for decades have used bureaucratic organizational structures as they relied on government funding and operated in stable environments. Educational innovations and market developments have prompted the enterprising university movement that emphasizes flexibility, employee involvement, and interface with the external environment. Many administrators and faculty members in universities today received their education and work experience in large state-supported, bureaucratically structured universities. A value for bureaucratic practices may persist as these individuals transition to non-traditional universities operating in dynamic environments. The present study used the case method to explore the extent to which organizational change in a for-profit university in the Middle East was perceived as being managed using a bureaucratic versus an enterprising approach. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with faculty, administrators, and members of the university’s board of trustees. Results suggested that the change process was perceived as being bureaucratically managed with administrators making the decisions. This appears contrary to collegial values that characterize universities and inconsistent with the dynamic, open market in which the university operated. Findings provide an example that may help to raise administrative awareness of how past assumptions and behavioral scripts can conflict with an enterprising approach to change management.

P.G. Arul  

The use of information to support marketing decisions making is increasingly recognized. The majority of the advertising campaigns are built on insufficient and inadequate information. Especially on media planning practices adopts by ad-agencies in delivering the advertisements in media become complicated due to media explosion. The media planners have highlighted the need to utilize information available and held by their clients for effective anticipation and its developments media plan to gain competitive advantage over others. The main purpose of conducting brief meeting is to formally evaluate the current state/progress, growth of brands and its market structure in the light of the brand intention of the clients. If there is difference in perception of information sharing by ad-agencies and clients in the initial stage of media planning will dilute the company objectives which is hoping to achieve through media. The research findings of this paper highlights the brief meeting take place between the ad-agencies and clients can be considered a checklist and guide for the media planner. It always better for the clients to have understanding with ad-agencies in sharing information and consider ad-agencies as partners of their business.

Edouard V. Novatorov 

The paper discusses and suggests alternative methodological paradigms to approach the problem “marketing to nonmarketers”. First, the paper describes the issue of “marketing to nonmarketers” and proposes the purpose of this article. Then it presents methodological issues in management science and describes four major research paradigms: the logico-positivist/empiricist paradigm, constructivism, critical theory, and the pluralist paradigm. Finally, it concludes that pluralist approach will benefit and enrich both the management science and non-profit field. Using as a case methodological development of nonprofit marketing concept and followed controversy over “marketing to nonmarketers” controversy paper traces evolution of the issue in context of research methodology. Paper concludes that traditional approach it based on logico-positivist paradigm. Article suggests adaptation of alternative methodological approaches and research paradigms to approach the problem “marketing to nonmarketers”.

Fredrick Onyango Aila Dr. Isaac Ochieng and Dr. David Oima 

Indigenous chicken are populous in most developing countries, supporting the livelihoods of many rural folks yet are produced under very low or no biosecurity principles, leading to low productivity. Consumers on the contrary, exhibit high preferences for indigenous chicken. The research question was: what are the consumer attitudes on biosecurity principles for indigenous chicken? The aim of the study was to validate a psychometric scale to measure consumer attitudes on biosecurity principles for indigenous chicken. The sub-aims were to reduce scale so it clearly measures the constructs and to test one hypothesis: H0: There are no significant consumer attitudes on biosecurity principles for indigenous chicken in Kisumu City, Kenya. Starting from a 74-item with 4:1 subject to item ratio biosecurity principles for indigenous chicken scale constructed using Fishbein’s Multiattribute model, the hypothesis was tested on pilot data gathered from 300 students of a large university in Kisumu County, Kenya using maximum likelihood factor analysis. Reliabilities for each biosecurity principle ranged from α=.817 to α=.817 respectively. Initial KMO were low ranging between .519 to .595 but improved significantly after refining the scale. Only one factor was extracted from each principle based on theory. Each extracted factor explained variances ranging from 25.099% to 34.307% respectively, though <50 percent. A total of 37 items loaded on these four factors with respect to the four biosecurity principles. The factor matrices for each extracted factor were significant at p=.000 and p<.05 respectively. Thus the null hypothesis was rejected. The results can further be confirmed in subsequent studies.

Oladipupo Muhrtala Tijani and Ajape  Kayode Mohammed 

The advent of IT has offered significant improvement to the way financial transactions in business are processed by professional accountants. Hence, in most parts of developed countries, it is almost impossible to function as an accountant without requisite IT skills. However, the pattern seem not attain similar forte in SMEs especially in developing economies. Consequently, this study would provide answer to the degree of computer-based accounting systems adoption by SMEs in Nigeria. We have conducted an empirical investigation through a structured survey focused on finance and accounts executives of the enterprises that holds primarily responsibility for business transactions processing. This information was sought in order to expound on the extent of CBAS adoption by Nigerian SMEs. Respondents were obtained from manufacturing, agriculture, construction and mining, hotel and hospitality, IT services, medical services, wholesale and retail trade, and general services industries. Through a combination of cross tabulation and logistics regression analysis, our findings showed that the use of CBAS by Nigerian SMEs is highly significant as all companies operating in all industries surveyed uses one type of accounting software or another. This outcome suggests that professional accountants must endeavour to continually horn their skills for continued relevance in the profession.

Livingstone Caesar 

The traditional cadet training system as discussed in the human resource literature on seafarers is epitomic of a succession planning system which primarily ensures that there is a reliable pool of talents from which shipping companies could pick future ship officers; but the vagaries of globalisation coupled with economic pressures is changing the complexion of cadet training for the shipping industry. As a result, what are currently left of cadet training are the relics of poor recruitment practices from shipping industry employers which is evidenced by high attrition rates among cadets. Ensuring a constant supply of cadets to fill the position of retiring and departing ship officers is a necessity; hence the need for a career and talent planning system – succession planning. This conceptual paper examines how succession planning for seafarers can be used as tool towards ensuring sustainability of ship officer supply for employers within the global shipping industry. In particular, the paper focuses on how certain peculiar aspects of the shipping industry; makes succession planning an imperative solution towards ensuring sustainability of skilled labour supply. The paper concludes with recommendations and directions for future research to draw greater attention to solutions for the greater officer shortage.

Hamed Fazlollahtabar 

Information Technology (IT) has played a significant role in facilitating organizational change programs. Many countries have tried to implement electronic government (e-government) as the most basic infrastructure for such programs. The term electronic government (e-government) is mainly inferred from the information and communications technology (ICT) usage to modify structures and procedures of government agencies. Acknowledging the necessity of utilizing the new electronic, information, and communication technologies, the movement toward implementation of e-government got the attention of authorities and policy makers. Public administrations have been very much concerned about the architecture of e-government, especially because of the promotion of e-government that has taken place in recent years. The paper seeks to provide a set of electronic readiness (e-readiness) indices affecting e-government overall architecture. The paper notes the various major segments of e-readiness. The paper proposes a feedback based diagnosis system (FBDS) as e-readiness integrated tool that emphasizes information access and also integrates the various segments of organizational, ICT, human resources, and external readiness into one single tool.